Friday, December 30, 2011

This Week with the Mommies


We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, OceansideMommies provides what our members need, when and how they need it.

Click here to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all of our events scheduled for this week.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011

MOMics Comics - Installing a Carseat is Easy!

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Illustration by Rainey Niklawski from RichmondMommies.com, A3 for The Mommies Network

If you enjoy drawing or designing mom-centered comics of your own, consider contributing to our "Momics" column! Send us an email at blogs@themommiesnetwork.org
Monday, December 26, 2011

Menu Monday: Kiss Me Chocolate Chip Cookies





I am always making CCC a million different ways, just search Chocolate Chip Cookie/s on here and you'll get a few hits. Can't help it. These are chewy soft yummies. And I had a ton of chips I needed to use up. When a few cooled I took them on a plate to Pixie girl- she took one, walked away took a bite and came back towards me, I told DH, "yup she wants one in each hand..." NOPE. She came over, put her arms around me and kissed me... then took the other cookie. I love that little baby.




2 sticks melted butter
1/4 c sugar
1 1/4 c brown sugar (lightly packed)
2Tbs milk
2 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
2 Tbs sour cream

Sift-
2 1/4c bread flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt- I used kosher last night

1 cup oats
2 cups chocolate chips
1 cup nuts (optional)

Cream sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Add remaining wet ingredients. Beat well. Mix in flour mixture. Stir in oats, chocolate and nuts.

Chill dough thoroughly. I left this dough overnight in the fridge. I used a small cookie scoop for these cookies. I baked them on stoneware. Which took longer, than my standard parchment lined jelly roll pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 9-10 minutes depending on your oven.

You can also scoop the dough onto a cookie sheet, flash freeze the dough balls and put them in a Zip top bag and bake a few at a time.

OR roll the dough into logs and wrap in plastic wrap and slice and bake them also.

Post provided by the Please Give Peas a Chance Blog.
Friday, December 23, 2011

This Week With the Mommies


We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, OceansideMommies provides what our members need, when and how they need it.

Click here to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all of our events scheduled for this week.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Cloth Diapering Momics

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Illustration by Rainey Niklawski from RichmondMommies.com, A3 for The Mommies Network

If you enjoy drawing or designing mom-centered comics of your own, consider contributing to our weekly "Momics" column! Send us an email at blogs@themommiesnetwork.org
Monday, December 12, 2011

Menu Monday - Kettle Corn


I was amazed at how easy and fast this was, I was more amazed at how easy the clean up is! I thought for sure with oil and sugar I'd be scrubbing a pot after I was done, but not at all! There was hardly a stuck on mess. This is such an inexpensive snack. Sure it isn't the most healthy but hot kettle corn with that caramelized sugar crunch is SO good fresh.

1/2 cup popping corn
1/4 cup vegetable oil- It seems like a lot but not in the end.
3 tablespoons sugar
kosher salt
two oven mitts or pot holders
a big pot with a lid (I used a 5 qt dutch oven and it was perfect)


Measure everything out and set it aside. Once you start it's hard to measure things, it moves quickly.



Add oil to the pot and heat it on medium high, make sure the oil get hot but not burning. Add the popcorn. SPRINKLE in the sugar over top (do not dump it in a big pile). Place the lid on top of the pot and start moving the pot around. The oven mitts help with the heat. The corn will start popping, once it slows down you are done. With a big metal serving spoon stir to bring up some of the sugar and coat the rest of the popcorn if needed.  *I forgot to tell you to salt the popcorn at this point* SO good served right away.



Post provided by the Please Give Peas a Chance. Published to The Mommies Network blog July 2011.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Life as a Homeschooling Mom

If I were to meet you on the street today, I would introduce myself as Heather, stay-at-home/homeschooling mom of my daughters who are six and three. You would ask me my thoughts on the public school system and about my choice to keep them home, then about my method of teaching, and the curriculum I use. I would smile and say all the right things. I would tell you just how much I love it, how passionate I am about being their teacher, and how confident I am that this is the right choice for my family.

But that wouldn't really be the truth.

You see, more often than not I have no idea what I am doing. I second guess every decision. Homeschooling was never something I imagined myself doing, so I wonder how I got to this point, and what I was thinking. And some days I allow myself to dream about that big yellow bus pulling up in front of my house and taking my children away for the next six hours.

I love my girls dearly, of course. But the days are long, and the weeks are hectic. And I rarely get a few minutes to think, let alone have a conversation with another adult. We have days that we wake up early, get dressed and into our school room right away. And then we have others where I realize we are still in our pajamas at noon and I haven't even opened a workbook, or answered a single question.

Guilt and fear are par for the course in motherhood, but in my life they are exacerbated by being primarily responsible for my children's education. I believe that right now they learn so much through play, and have a natural curiosity to explore the world around them. But secretly, I worry that I am not smart enough to teach them all they need to know. I question whether my methods really are the best. And I'm afraid that I am doing them a huge disservice by not exposing them to a more structured learning environment.

As I start asking myself questions, I become riddled with the fear that while homeschooling is what I want for my girls, I might not be cut out for it.
But then...something miraculous happens.

My youngest daughter will count to twenty, correctly read the letters off a sign as we pass by, and ask for her mountain of books at bedtime. My oldest daughter will flawlessly name the planets, sound out letters, and proudly find Italy on the world map. They will ask for more rhyming games, and sight words. They will demand just one more sheet of school work. They will run to their dad when he walks through the door, eager to tell them what they learned about that day. And they will beg to have school on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays.

And in those moments, I realize that something is working!

So a more accurate representation of the truth is that I am a stay-at-home/homeschooling mom of two. It is harder than I expected it to be. I don't know if I am making the right choices all the time. But my children are learning! And they are loving it!! And that hunger for knowledge is exactly what I wanted to instill in them all along.

Written by Heather (imarriedrich) from UnionCountyMommies. Originally submitted to The Mommies Network Blog on 04/15/2011
Monday, December 5, 2011

Ring in the New Year with TMN!

Ring in the New Year by reaching moms across the nation!

Women make more than 80 percent of all purchasing decisions and control two thirds of the nation’s disposable income. And moms may have the greatest buying power. What mom doesn’t share the latest trends or personal experiences with a business that has provided products or services for her family or herself?

To help you start the New Year with a bang, The Mommies Network is offering the following:
With all new/renewed sponsorship agreements, your business will receive a complimentary blog feature (advertorial to include logo/product image and 500 words). Prepaid agreements receive a 5 percent discount and a complimentary two months on one sponsorship listing. Sponsors also receive 20 percent off event sponsorships. Offer expires Jan. 31, 2012.

The Mommies Network can help your business reach moms across the nation or in your community. We are a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a safe, secure, free place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empower them to be better women, parents, and community leaders. Through our online forums, our chapters connect local mothers, enabling them to ask questions, seek support, offer encouragement, find volunteer opportunities, and grow as leaders as they volunteer their time with our site. Our organization provides a valuable service to a portion of the population that is nearly always overlooked, overworked, and taken for granted: moms!

For more details on how your business can ring in the New Year with moms across the nation, please contact Jessica Van Dyke at Jessica.VanDyke@TheMommiesNetwork.org.

How are you reaching the greatest buying power in our nation?
Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Budget Friendly Dates

I strongly believe it is important for every couple to have time together without children underfoot. Like a garden, a marriage needs to be tended. Both need to be fed and watered and given attention. The weeds need to be pulled and the disagreements worked out. If either is ignored, they will suffer and eventually perish.
You can reconnect with your partner without spending a massive amount of money. Think outside the box. A date does not have to be dinner at an expensive restaurant.

At Home Dates
You can spend little to no money by having a date at home with that special someone. Put the kids to bed early and the two of you can be all alone.

-Spread out a blanket on the living room floor and have a picnic inside. Turn the lights down low, light some candles, play some soft music and talk to your sweetie.

-Have movie night at home. Get a movie from Red Box or Blockbuster Express for $1 (or free if you have a code). If you have a Netflix membership, order a movie in advance or watch an instant Netflix movie. If none of these options are available to you, many libraries also loan out movies to their patrons for no charge. Pop some popcorn and snuggle with your loved one.

-Break out the games. If you and your significant other enjoy board games, gather a few of your favorite games and have your own mini-tournament at the dining room table. My husband and I like to quiz each other using the Trivial Pursuit cards without playing the entire game. Make up your own rules. You can – you are a grown-up!

-Plan a spa night. Run a bubble bath. Pour a sparkly beverage. Bring out the body lotion and give each other massages.

-Play 20 questions. Whether you are newlyweds or have been together for decades, chances are there is something you do not know about each other. Take time to think about the questions and write them down ahead of time. Sit down together and listen, really listen, as you ask each other the questions aloud.

Out on the Town Dates
You can have a date out of the house without spending too much money. Many people spend the majority of their date money on babysitting, so send the kids off to Grandma’s house or organize a baby-sitting swap with a friend.

-Go to a bookstore and browse the books and magazines. Sit in the café and sip a drink. Maybe even share a dessert together.

-Plan your date for the afternoon. Take a walk in the park, while you hold hands and talk. You will spend nothing, get some exercise and breathe in some fresh air. Studies show that talking while walking side by side enhances communication because the conversation is viewed as more casual and less threatening.

-Plan a late night date after dinner and go out for drinks and dessert. You still get to treat yourselves, but you will spend less than if you were to go out for dinner.

-If you and your honey are sports fans, check out a local high school game or minor league event. You get the excitement that comes with watching live action at a fraction of the cost.

-Go to the mall. Before you go, vow not to buy anything and stick to it. (Skip this one if you do not have the willpower. ) My husband and I like to play the hat game in the department stores. We try silly hats on each other and model them. We get a good laugh and it costs nothing. You can sample the perfumes and colognes while there too.

-Check out local Open Houses. Dress up in your best outfits and check the realty section. Spend the day giggling at stranger’s decorating choices and find new ideas for your own abode.

-If you and your loved one are wine fans, take a tour of a local winery. Many offer tours and tastings for free and throw in advice as well.

Whatever you chose to do, whether it is at home or out on the town, have fun with it. Rejoice in spending time with your loved one. The morning will come soon enough and life will return to its normal crazy state.

Article written by Melissa from TriangleMommies. Originally submitted to The Mommies Network Blog on 07/22/2011
Monday, November 28, 2011

Menu Monday - Mini Salsa Meatloaves


Mini Salsa Meatloaves

This is a super-fast meal that your kids will love.

You'll need...

2 large egg whites
1/3 cup quick-cooking oats
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons chipotle salsa, divided
1/4 cup ketchup, divided
1 pound ground beef, extra lean
Cooking spray
Green beans, steamed

To make...

1. Preheat oven to 350°.

2. Combine egg whites in a large bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Stir in oats, 1/2 cup salsa, and 2 tablespoons ketchup. Add beef; mix well by hand. Divide beef mixture into 4 equal portions, shaping each into an oval-shaped loaf. Coat a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Place loaves on prepared pan.

3. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until done.

4. Combine remaining 2 tablespoons salsa and remaining 2 tablespoons ketchup in a small bowl; spread mixture evenly over loaves.

5. Serve with green beans.

ENJOY!

Nutrition-
190 calories. 6g fat. 10.9g carb


Recipe submitted by Becka (MomTo4) from SaratogaCountyMommies
Friday, November 25, 2011

Don't Forget: Santa Letters!

The elves are busy coordinating delivery of Santa letters to boys and girls across the United States. Is your letter in the bunch? If you haven't yet ordered your letter(s), don't delay! Place your order by Nov. 30 to ensure delivery before Christmas.

Remember, Your first custom letter is only $6. If you purchase more than one, you will receive a 10 percent discount on the entire order. Use coupon code SANTA at checkout to receive 10 percent off the total.

You will be asked a few questions about your child during the ordering process. Your answers will assist Santa in creating a unique letter for your child. Letters will be printed on Santa's special stationery, signed by the jolly fellow himself, and with the help of a special elf, shipped in bulk to North Pole, Alaska, in time for your little one to receive a special letter before the holidays.

Reserve your letter(s) before Nov. 30 to ensure delivery before Christmas. We hope you'll take advantage of this terrific treat from the North Pole. Place your order now! http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/santa.html

The proceeds of this fundraiser will support The Mommies Network and your local chapter.  Please mention your chapter's name to ensure they receive credit for your purchase.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011

My Wine Glass

As I sit here typing this, I am sipping wine from a sippy cup. A good vintage, red merlot, fine and robust with a smooth flavor. In a blue sippy cup, with a built in straw. I'm torn between shame and amusement, both equal in validity, neither feeling stronger than the other. All I can think, as I sit here and slurp up my vintage wine, welcoming the weekend, that this is indeed, a true sign of being a Mom.

It's not that I don't have clean wine glasses. In order to keep my family from eating in a communal style I must do at least 2 loads of dishes a day. My wine glasses are clean, and stored above the stove where they have their home. So I cant blame lack of glasswear.

J just saw me, sitting in the living room, desperately trying to finish the book I've been working on, and with it being the weekend, treated me to a glass of red to celebrate the fact the children were put in bed and the weekend was upon us. In a sippy cup. Because of our white carpets. And I have the reputation of spilling my drinks quite often, drunk OR sober.

After giggling over his unspoken comment by his choice in cups, I enjoyed my wine for the first time with a straw. I finished my book and sippy wine in hand, headed downstairs to my desktop, where I now sit. Gaming with J and some friends, who are also celebrating the return of the weekend with drinks down the hatch, I realized my glass was empty. Instead of getting a regular wine glass, I refilled my sippy cup. No reason to dirty another glass. But still, I sit here, gaming, blogging, and drinking, with the glow of my screen illuminating my blue sippy cup and I have to smile. Drinking wine from a sippy cup fits me. It seems a good symbolism for life. To love and enjoy the quality core of what is important: family, love, etc.. things that matter... but wrapped in humor, silliness, laughter. Giggles.

I think this may become some sort of tradition for me. Just don't tell the kids I borrowed their cups.


Post submitted by Brittany (Rhaven) from TriangleMommies.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Menu Monday - Homemade Mall Pretzels





Every time I go to the mall, I can't say no to those delicious Mall Pretzels. The smell hits me as soon as I hit the food court. I love the crispy outside and soft inside. I enjoy dunking them in mustard or melted cheese.  Last night I was brain storming ideas for the Monday recipe and I thought pretzels! I told my husband right away that I was going to make mall pretzels. He looked at me and laughed so hard and said, "your going to bake homemade pretzels? Please don't burn down our apartment." Well this just made me 1000 times more excited to make pretzels, just so I could prove my husband wrong.



In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the 1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast, 2tbs. brown sugar and 1 1/8 tsp. salt in 1 1/2 cups warm water.



Stir in 3 cups all-purpose flour and 1 cup bread flour, and knead dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. The video above is of me kneading dough. I thought I knew how to knead dough, but after I googled a how to video on kneading dough. I can say that I was totally wrong. Some tips I would share are first spray your surface with pam cooking spray and put flour on your hands and dough. If your surface and dough start sticking lay down more pam or flour. This will help the dough not to stick to you or your rolling surface.



Place dough in a pam cooking spray greased bowl, and turn to coat the surface. Cover with plastic wrap and a towel, and let rise for one hour.





After the dough as sat and allowed to rise for an hour, cut into twelve pieces.



Roll each piece of dough into a 3 foot rope, pencil thin or thinner.







Twist the dough into a pretzel shape, and dip into the baking soda solution. The baking soda solution is 2 cups warm water and baking soda combined in an 8 inch square pan. I found a helpful video on how to twist your dough into the perfect pretzel shape. The video also gives some great suggestions on other uses for your pretzel dough. Honestly, rolling the doll out into the three foot long rope is the toughest part. I found working from right to left was the best for me.





After dipping the dough into the baking soda solution, place on a towel to soak up the bottom side of the dough. Then place the pretzel on a greased cookie sheet, reshape pretzel if needed. Let the pretzels sit on the cookie sheet for twenty minutes before putting in the oven. Sprinkle dough with salt if desired, before baking.

Bake at 450 degrees F for five minutes, turn 180 degrees and cook another five minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with garlic salt or cinnamon sugar.

The best part of this recipe is it is kid friendly. Kids will love playing with the dough and seeing what creations they can make. One warning I have is not to leave your balls of dough in reach of a two year old, they will eat it. Also it takes time to roll out all the dough so you may want to bag half of the dough and put it in the refrigerator.

The finished product is hot and delicious! Kid tested and mother approved!



Post submitted by Kathy from CentralPeidmontMommies.com
Originally posted on the CentralPiedmontMommies Blog on 5/16/11
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Mommies Weigh-In Challenge

Are you looking to shed a few pounds? Need some help with your fitness goals? Or just searching for the right foods to eat? The Mommies Network challenges you to be the best you can be in 2012!

Join mommies across the country on their journey to be healthy for themselves and their families. Participants will be assigned to regional teams led by a TMN member and a wellness collaborator. Results, tips, and stories will be shared monthly to keep all participants motivated. This challenge is a six-month commitment, running January–June.

Email fitness@themommiesnetwork.org for more information about this program. Applications will be accepted through Nov. 23, 2011.
Monday, November 14, 2011

Menu Monday - Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup & Cheesy Green Onion Cornbread


You Need (for the soup):
1 Onion
2 Cloves Garlic
Chicken (2-3 breasts, 4 thin breasts, 5-6 cutlets, or any leftovers you can shred up)
1 Can Black or Pinto Beans
1 Can Petite Diced Tomatoes
2 Cans Chicken Stock
2 Cans Enchilada sauce
Frozen Corn (a whole 15-16oz bag)
Oregano
Cumin
Chili Powder
Salt & Pepper

You Need (for the soup toppings):
Avocado
Sour Cream
Shredded Cheese
Tortilla Chips
Note: I recommend you use the Ortega brand of enchilada sauce - not because I have any brand loyalty or endorsement (ha), but because it has a meaty/taco-y base rather than a tomatoey/pepper base. The other brands are a LOT more spicy. It depends on what you like, really, but I prefer the way the Ortega brand tastes in this soup.

    Soup Instructions:

    1. Cook/shred your chicken. The easiest way to do this if you're using fresh chicken is to boil it for about 25 minutes, and then shred it on a plate with forks. If you're using leftovers, just shred it up! I get this boiling right off the bat.

    2. Chop up your onion to a fine dice & mince your garlic. Sweat these out in some olive oil right in the pot you plan to make your soup in.

    3. When the onions & garlic are cooked down a bit (somewhat translucent), add in your diced tomatoes & corn. Then season with the list of spices - they all call for 1 tsp but I like to play around with it so add what you like! Don't go crazy on the chili powder until you know how spicy the enchilada sauce you're working with is.

    4. Add in your chicken stock, enchilada sauce & water. Stir & check for seasoning - add more of whatever you'd like if you think it needs it. You can also add your jalapenos now, if you got them. And - if your soup is a bit too acidic for your liking you can add a few pinches of sugar to help.

    5. Shred & add in your chicken if you haven't already. Then simmer for 10-15 minutes.

    6. Cube up your avocado & get your toppings ready while you wait for the soup to simmer.

    I top mine with everything from the topping list above - but have fun, play around with it! The sour cream cools it down a lot - and the avocado tastes incredible with all the other flavors in the soup!

    You Need (for the cornbread):
    A box of Jiffy mix (or any other cornbread mix)
    Ingredients to make you cornbread (I believe mine was 1 egg & 1/3 cup of milk - follow your box instructions)
    Green Onions, sliced or snipped into O's
    Cheese (I used a Mexican blend to fit the Mexican theme)

    Cornbread Instructions:
    *If you're making these together, I suggest doing this first & popping it in the oven before getting to work on the soup!

    1. Prepare the cornbread mix as the package instructs in a mixing bowl.

    2. Chop up or snip green onions with kitchen shears and add it to the batter. I snipped up 1 bunch (the size grocery stores usually sell them in) and put about half in the mix - the other half we used as a topper for the soup.

    3. Mix in a few good handfuls of your cheese - I used about half the bag, otherwise the cheese gets kinda lost in the cornbread.

    4. Bake according to box!
    Recipe submitted by Jenn Rychlicki (mrsLicky) from Buffalo Mommies
    Saturday, November 12, 2011

    This Week with the Mommies


    We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, NWMichiganMommies provides what our members need, when and how they need it.

    Click here to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all of our events scheduled for this week.
    Monday, November 7, 2011

    This Week with the Mommies

    Perfect Pumpkin Pie

    1 (15 ounce) canned pumpkin
    1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
    2 large eggs, beaten
    1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    2 teaspoons McCormick Pumpkin Pie Spice
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust (you can use graham cracker crust if you prefer)

    Directions

    Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

    In a medium saucepan, combine pumpkin, cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice over low heat. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed and mixture is warm.
    Transfer mixture into another bowl and allow to cool.
    Add sweetened condensed milk and eggs to cooled pumpkin mixture and stir until smooth.
    Pour into crust.
    Bake 15 minutes.
    Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F and continue baking 35 to 40 minutes or until knife inserted 1 inch from crust comes out clean.
    Cool on top of oven to prevent the pie from cooling too fast, causing the crust to crack
    Friday, November 4, 2011

    The Mommies Network Presents Santa Letters

    TMN presents Santa Letters!

    Have your kids begun making their Christmas wish lists? The Mommies Network and Santa Claus have teamed up to send your little one a letter straight from the North Pole!

    Your first custom letter is only $6. If you purchase more than one, you will receive a 10 percent discount on the entire order. Use coupon code SANTA at checkout to receive 10 percent off the total.

    You will be asked a few questions about your child during the ordering process. Your answers will assist Santa in creating a unique letter for your child. Letters will be printed on Santa's special stationery, signed by the jolly fellow himself, and with the help of a special elf, shipped in bulk to North Pole, Alaska, in time for your little one to receive a special letter before the holidays.

    Reserve your letter(s) before Nov. 30 to ensure delivery before Christmas. We hope you'll take advantage of this terrific treat from the North Pole. Place your order now! http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/santa.html
    Please mention our area chapter name to ensure we receive credit for your purchase.

    The proceeds of this fundraiser will support The Mommies Network and your local chapter.
    Monday, October 31, 2011

    Menu Monday - Sweet 'n Sour Coleslaw

    Sweet 'n Sour Coleslaw

    Ingredients:
    3 lbs of cabbage (purple + Green or either or)
    1 cup of minced onion
    1 cup of minced red + green pepper
    2 cups of sugar
    1 cup of vegetable oil
    1 cup of vinegar
    1 tablespoon of salt
    2 tablespoons of celery seed


    Cooking Instructions:
    Mix together shredded cabbage, minced onion, peppers and 2 cups of sugar.
    Let sit for 15 minutes.

    Bring to boil in pot, veggie oil, vinegar, salt, celery seed. After it starts to boil, take off stove and pour over cabbage mixture.


    Additional Comments:
    Best to make this a day or two in advance, so juices have time to penetrate.

    Submitted to The Mommies Network recipe database by "lisahrlady"
    Monday, October 24, 2011

    Menu Monday - Creamy Ranch Pork Chops

    Creamy Ranch Pork Chops

    Ingredients:
    1 tbsp oil
    4 boneless porkchops 3/4" thick
    1 can cream of mushroom soup
    1/2 soup can milk
    1 pkg (1 oz) ranch salad dressing mix
    paprika

    Cooking Instructions:

    Heat oil in skillet. Add chops and cook until browned. Add soup, milk, 1/2 dressing mix. Heat to a boil then cover and simmer for half an hour over low heat.
    Before serving sprinkle with paprika

    Serving Suggestions:
    Serve with a veggie blend and applesauce.

    Additional Comments:
    You can make a ranch-style rice to go with it by putting the rest of the dressing mix in the rice water.

    Submitted to The Mommies Network recipe database by "Carole"
    Monday, October 17, 2011

    Menu Monday Butterscotch Pineapple Upside Down Cake

    Butterscotch Pineapple Upside Down Cake

    Ingredients:
    2 cups all-purpose flour
    1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    One 12-oz package (2 cups) butterscotch flavored morsels, divided
    3/4 cup butter, softened, divided
    Two 8-oz cans sliced pineapple, drained, reserving 3/4 cup juice
    8 maraschino cherries
    1 cup sugar
    2 eggs

    Cooking Instructions:
    Mix dry ingredients, set aside. In 10-inch cast iron skillet over low heat, combine 1 cup butterscotch morsels and 1/4 cup butter. Stir until morsels are melted and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat. Arrange pineapple and maraschino cherries in skillet. In large bowl, combine sugar, remaining 1/2 cup butter and eggs and beat until creamy. Gradually beat in the flour mixture alternately with the reservered pineapple juice. Stir in remaining morsels. Pour over pineapple. Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for 35-40 minutes. Immediately invert onto serving plate.

    Submitted to The Mommies Network recipe database by a member
    Friday, October 14, 2011

    Kids and Yoga

    If you think yoga is for the thirty-plus set alone, it may come as a surprise that children as young as preschoolers actually enjoy striking a pose. While they do not attempt headstands, there are a number of simple moves that the young enthusiasts can perform. The exercises themselves last between thirty seconds to one minute, but children stay in a pose as per their capacity, which builds gradually with practice.

    Many of the yoga positions resemble animal movements and elements in nature, which is why kids easily take to stretching their bodies like a cat or balancing like a flamingo. The poses spark the little ones’ imagination and promote awareness of their bodies’ abilities.

    Instructors too afford children freedom to explore, and incorporate creative techniques and age-appropriate props to playfully lead them through the active and relaxation poses. So unlike in a class for adults your tots can flap their imaginary wings, make barking sounds in the dog pose or be still as the mountain for as long as they wish. In the process they develop strong, flexible bodies, better motor skills, and learn to calm down and focus.

    Yoga also presents ways to overcome fear, anger and frustration. It has been found to aid hyperactive kids in channeling their impulses, and therapeutic in children with special needs. Thus this exercise system that dates back more than 5000 years fosters the overall development of children and unlocks their potential through the formative years. Yoga programs for kids offered across the country are providing that early start. From being a trendy discipline, yoga is gaining acceptance among parents too. In fact, some of the classes are open to parents so you have a wonderful activity to share with your child.

    This is just the beginning. As your kids grow so do the ways in which the physical skills and meditation techniques derived from yoga can make a difference. An after school yoga session serves as excellent exercise without the pressure of competitive student sports. The holding of postures and synchronizing of breadth and movement enhance fitness. Hatha yoga which is the more widely practiced form in the West has several styles so there is flexibility in choosing a workout suited to the individual’s physical capability and personality type. For instance ashtanga yoga with it’s challenging sequence of poses performed at a faster pace is akin to athletic training while viniyoga is less demanding physically and focuses on precise coordination of breath with the movement of the spine.

    Regular practice builds strength, energy and muscle tone, boosts bodies vital systems, and improves concentration and coordination. These benefits help your child be a better sportsman as well as a better student. Beyond that, the essence of yoga is to bring the mind and body together to attain inner peace so it promotes self-appreciation, serenity and a sense of balance. Hence your preteen or teen acquires the inner resources to cope with the stresses of adolescence, keeping disorders and addictions at bay.

    Even if you may not know much about yoga it is not difficult to bring home it’s many positive effects to your family. Towards this end you can attend a yoga class taught by a qualified instructor or self-study using books and videos. Resources such as The Yoga Site (http://www.yogasite.com) and Yoga Journal (http://www.yogajournal.com) educate on the philosophy and practice of yoga, guide you on how to perform various poses as well as assist in locating a teacher in your area.

    When practicing the postures with your four year old or your twelve year old at home a little bit of improvisation and spontaneity keeps the workout interesting and it becomes an activity that they look forward to doing with you. As you interact at their level, you will find discovering yoga with your child to be a rewarding experience in more ways than one.

    Originally posted by: CharlotteMommies
    Thursday, October 13, 2011

    Limited Time Breeds Different Appetite for Literature

    I can think of no better way to remove myself from the weighty responsibilities of domestic chores than by reading. But not just any book. As I mature in years, my taste for literature has become more particular; I’m as finicky as my four-year-old who snorts, sniffs, and closely inspects everything he eats before consumption. These are the hectic days of my life when time is the great scarcity of my existence. So, when I delve into a story, I want all the elements of the craft of fiction to leap off the page, the least of which include an intriguing plot, a transcendental setting, wittydialogue, smooth exposition, gorgeous language and true enlightenment.


    Am I asking for too much? Maybe. But it occurred to me recently I am entrusting my essence and my mind to a storyteller for hours, days, years even (Beloved still rests on my nightstand), to say nothing of the precious commodity of money, so all I ask in exchange for my investment is the aforementioned qualities and a descent serving of wit and good humor.


    A mother of three active boys whose activities dominate most of my waking hours, I rarely get the opportunity to feed my starving mind books high in sustenance; and when I do, it’s hard to digest over the pandemonium of roaming toddlers and an eight-year old, who from time to time seeks solace and exile in adult companionship. When such moments occur, I put my book aside and ask him to read to me. And so begins the tale of Charlotte’s Web which sends me soaring back in time to my third grade year, to those mellow, worry-free days of my youth when I escaped to my room and indulged in pages of imaginative literature.


    This satisfies me for a spell, then my hunger returns for meaty, high caloric prose. But when can I partake? Perhaps, this is the reason I have almost limited my reading list to authors who have obtained immortality through their works. Those slow but sure-footed writers I can see with my mind’s eye, holding a stylus in hand, pumping out their muse with gusto, pouring out their heart and soul for generations to come. Writers and poets not subject to today’s conditions of publication: book length, political ramifications, editorial tweaking for marketing purposes, and stringent deadlines. Those first-time authors who had nothing to lose when they wrote Jubilee, Invisible Man and To Kill a Mockingbird. And let us not forget the poets: Phyllis Wheatley, Paul Lawrence Dunbar, Langston Hughes...ahh, the brilliant minds of their day.


    I guess for me it’s real simple. I want to be entertained and enlightened, as I should be, at least for a little while, before the chorus of three little boys sing, “Mommy, is our dinner ready yet?”


    Later, after an exhaustive dinner, a Kool-aid spill or two, a plate of spaghetti tumbles to the floor and a series of frenzied bubble baths, when the house is as quiet as an anthill and I’ve punched my ‘mommy’ time clock for the night, I crawl in bed, and the song of my central nervous system is a low hum, droning, “Does anyone have a good book?”


    But not just any book.


    Author: Juanita G. McDowell


    Originally posted on: CharlotteMommies

    Monday, October 10, 2011

    Menu Monday - Crab Filled Wontons


    Crab Filled Wontons

    Ingredients:
    6 ozs crabmeat, minced
    6 ozs softened cream cheese, softened
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1/4 teaspoon garlic powder   
    40 wonton skins
    1 slightly beaten egg
    Vegetable oil

    Cooking Instructions:
    1. Place a heaping teaspoonful of crabmeat mixture in the center of one wonton skin. Cover remaining skins with damp towel to keep them pliable.

    2. Top with another wonton skin and press edges to seal. Brush dab of egg on center of both sides of puff.

    3. Use fingers to pleat each edge, pressing to seal. Repeat with remaining wonton skins. Cover puffs with damp towel or plastic wrap to keep them from drying out.

    4. Heat 1 1/2 inches of vegetable oil in wok to 350 degrees F. Fry 4 or 5 puffs at a time until golden brown, turning 2 or 3 times, about 2 minutes. Drain on paper towel.

    Submitted by a member to The Mommies Network recipe database.
    Sunday, October 9, 2011

    National Support at Your Fingertips

    What if you had a place to go that had the same great support as your local chapter, but with more specialized forums and thousands of members across the United States?

    What if that place offered encouragement to mommies in specific situations, such as stay-at-home, work-at-home, and military mommies?

    What if that place provided interaction in groups discussing the latest Twilight books, couponing tips, and other hot topics in today's culture?

    What if you could get all that for free?

    Well, wonder no longer, because it's here at The Mommies Network National Forum. With 3,000 members and growing, the National Forum offers the same great support you've come to know from your local chapter, but with a twist. It features unique forums not available on your home site, including couponing, family vacation tips (including Disney), and alternative medicine.

    Looking for someone to chat with about Twilight and other vamp books? Check out our "Everything Vamps" subforum in Books, Movies, & Entertainment. Are you a stay-at-home, campus, or military mommy looking for a friend? Talk with those in your situation in one of the Our Work subforums. Do you have a child with special needs and desire interaction with other mothers who are dealing with a specific condition? We have subforums related to specific diagnoses in Our Kids With Special Needs.

    Members of this free site may purchase a Premium Membership, which contains extra forums, such as Debate This and Classifieds, along with other perks.

    Mommies across the country are chatting it up in these and many other groups in the National Forum. So skip the "what ifs," and join us for enhanced support on a national scale!

    If you're interested in being on the ground level of the action, consider becoming a Support Coordinator or Posting Diva for the National Forum.
    Monday, October 3, 2011

    The Mommies Network Presents ... Mommies Talk

    Mommies Talk Webinar
    The Mommies Network Presents ... Mommies Talk!
    Mommies Talk is a monthly webinar series that engages, informs, and supports our members.

    Get your kids to listen — the first time. No nagging or yelling required. October's webinar, presented in partnership with Positive Parenting Solutions, offers tools and strategies you can use right away. Discover how this webinar will be your answer to better behavior and parenting peace!

    There are two dates to choose from: Wednesday, Oct. 12, at 2 p.m. EDT and Thursday, Oct. 13, at 9 p.m. EDT. To ensure that this webinar proceeds as scheduled, we need at least 120 participants. If you are interested in attending, please click here to sign up as soon as possible.

    Email jennifer.zaranis@themommiesnetwork.org with any questions about the Mommies Talk webinar series.

    Menu Monday Healthy Morning Muffins

    Healthy Morning Muffins

    Ingredients:
    1 1/4 cups flour
    1/2 cup packed dark-brown sugar
    1/2 tsp baking soda
    1/2 tsp baking powder
    1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
    1/2 tsp coarse salt
    1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
    1/2 cup raisins
    3 Tbs extra-virgin olive oil
    1 large egg
    1/2 cup milk
    4 medium carrots, shredded
    1 medium ripe banana, mashed


    Cooking Instructions:
    Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Coat a 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray. In a large bowl whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg and salt until there are no more lumps. Stir in oats and raisins. Add oil, egg, milk, carrots and banana and stir until blended.

    Fill each muffin cup with 1/4 cup batter. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center of a muffin comes out clean, 23-25 minutes.


    Serving Suggestions:
    Serve warm or at room temperature. To store, keep in an airtight container, up to 3 days.


    Submitted to The Mommies Network recipe database by "Betsy"
    Friday, September 30, 2011

    Time out for style

    A common complaint of many mothers is the daily struggle of what to wear. Most mothers express exasperation that they dress too casually, and some say, sloppily. Many mothers do not have the time in their busy schedules to devote to finding appropriate and attractive clothing. Help can be found with a wardrobe consultant who will review your closet, assist you in determining your clothing needs, provide shopping assistance, and organize your closet.

    If you find that you stand in front of your closet full of clothes and have nothing to wear, I recommend that you find someone to watch the children for a half day and devote it to reviewing the clothing in your closet. Put on some music of your choice and pop open a Diet Coke or have a glass of wine if you're feeling more adventuresome. You'll need to try on everything, unless by sight you find that an item is too worn, stained, or a size that you haven't seen for awhile.

    Once you try on the remaining clothing ask yourself the following questions:
    1. Does it fit?
    2. Does the color suit me?
    3. When was the last time I wore this?
    4. Does this fit into my current life situation? (i.e. a stay-at-home mom doesn't need a closet full of power suits);and,
    5. Do I like it? (can I run into an old boyfriend and feel attractive?).

    Items that don't meet the above criteria can be donated to a charity. Please make sure that the item is in good condition; the rule is to only donate what you would consider buying. Items with tags still attached can be sold on eBay or at a consignment shop. The balance of the items can be tossed or recycled for your rag bag.

    Most women need the following for a casual winter wardrobe:
    1. Jeans in a darker wash;
    2. A pair of black pants. The current style recalling Audrey Hepburn looks good on most women and can be dressed up or down. I recommend that you have several pairs so that when one pair is in the wash, you have another to wear;
    3. A pair of corduroy pants in a boot cut style;
    4. A few sweaters in a classic style. I happen to like the J Crew Wesley cable style in the v-neck so you can layer a blouse or t-shirt under. Plus, they are really soft and wear well;
    5. A pair of short boots to wear under your jeans and pants;
    6. A pair of flat shoes to wear with your black pants. Try black or an animal print for more style;
    7. T-shirts in white and other colors that you like. The Old Navy ones are a terrific value;
    8. A sweater coat - a Fair Isle type weave will add pop to your pants and jeans. Also, it doesn't get that cold in Richmond, and, since we spend most of our days in cars, a heavy coat isn't needed for most days; and,
    9. A realwinter coat for colder days.

    That's all you need. I find that the more choices women have, the harder it is to decide what to wear. Pare down and you'll find that you are more confident and ready to face the world!
    The best part of the above list is that you can order these by catalog or on the internet. This is my favorite way to shop because I can try the clothing on at my own pace and match them to my existing pieces. No need to drag a 2 and 4 year old through the mall!
    Now you need to organize your closet. Take out anything that isn't clothing related. Find a new place for Christmas paper, sport equipment, and toys. When you're doing this its a great time to streamline your home. Make sure that you are using the same style of hanger; it takes up less rod space. I like the plastic jewel style hanger that you find in department stores. You should also buy a few shoe boxes and some baskets to put belts and scarves in. You can get these items at Target for a reasonable price.

    Originally posted by: RichmondMommies
    Wednesday, September 28, 2011

    Mommy, look at that dog!

    You and your children are enjoying a sunny afternoon at the park when they suddenly say, “Mommy, look at that dog! Let’s go see him!” This innocent request could turn emotionally and physically harmful for your children if your children don’t know the proper manners for meeting a new dog.

    What do you need to know? Bonnie Buchanan, owner of Bon-Clyde Training Center in Sanford, NC and professional dog trainer offers some advice.

    “Dogs need to be treated like human strangers,” says Bonnie. Parents should observe the owner and the dog’s body language. Does the dog look relaxed or nervous? Does the owner have control over the dog? Bonnie also notes that “it’s also important to remember that dogs react differently to adults and to children. Children often make faster and jerkier movements that can make a dog nervous. For a dog that hasn’t been ‘kidsocialized’, children can be threatening.”

    Here are a few tips to keep your next encounter with a four-legged friend a positive one:
    - The number one rule: Never stare a dog in the eyes. A dog interprets staring as an attempt to be dominant and this can cause a negative reaction from the dog.
    - Always ask the owner’s permission before you approach the dog.
    -Slowly lift the back of your hand for the dog to sniff.
    - Scratch under the chin first. Never pet the top of the head because this is a sign of dominance.
    - Keep your voice soft.
    - If a dog runs up to you, then remain calm, don’t run or scream.

    The dog’s owner may not be aware of the dog’s behavior, so watch for these signs and don’t approach a dog if he is doing any of the following:
    - Staring at you intensely
    - Tipped forward on the front feet
    - Ears pressed against the head
    These are all signs of aggression and it is best to stay away. If you have any doubt about the dog or owner, then avoid them. Dog bites are 100 percent preventable.

    What can you do if your child loves dogs, but you don’t want to make one part of your family just yet? Here are a few suggestions:
    - Training Centers like Bon-Clyde offer a variety of classes and seminars open to the public to observe.
    - Attend fundraisers or dog festivals
    - Attend local dog shows

    What can you do if your child is scared of dogs?
    - Find a Therapy Dog volunteer dog. Therapy Dogs are used in nursing homes and hospitals and have undergone special training to be gentle and calm.
    - Encourage the dog owner’s to tell your child something special about the dog.
    - Ask if your child and the dog can “shake hands”.

    It is important to remember that dogs will be dogs and even the most well trained dog can have a bad day. Dogs have personalities as unpredictable and complex as humans. It is these personalities that make dogs irresistible to adults and children.

    Originally posted by: CharlotteMommies
    Monday, September 26, 2011

    Menu Monday Heathers No-Salt Table Blend

    Heather's No-Salt Table Blend

    Ingredients:
    6 tbsp. dried oregano
    7 tbsp. onion powder
    4 tsp. dried marjoram
    4 tbsp. dried basil
    4 tsp. dried savory
    6 tsp. garlic powder
    2 tsp. dried thyme
    2 tsp. dried rosemary
    1 tsp. dried sage
    3 tsp. black pepper

    Cooking Instructions:
    Mix together and store in an airtight container.

    Additional Comments:
    This is a lovely addition to the table. My family and friends are crazy about this mix and are constantly asking me to package it up for them.

    Submitted to The Mommies Network recipe database by "Heather"
    Saturday, September 24, 2011

    Child Safety Tips: Was there ever an age of innocence?

    Within a span of two days, I was given a view as to how children in this day and age are a constant worry. How do you explain to preschoolers how dangerous it is for them to be a normal preschooler?

    Let me go back and explain the last two days of my life. Day one started out as a great bonding time with my kids. We went to the park to feed the ducks and play. I can't explain the pure joy I had watching my five-year-old and one-year-old chase ducks. That joy quickly turned to terror within the hour. I watched as my sweet, innocent five-year-old, who was supposed to be playing on the big slide, struck up a conversation with a strange man. I, on the other hand, was by the little slide a good distance away with the one-year-old. I immediately began to yell at my son, only to have him so caught up in his conversation that he did not hear me.

    I felt torn between my two kids. Do I panic the one-year-old and run up the slide to grab her and lose sight entirely of my son for the brief second. Or do I run to him and leave her on the top of the slide. I continued to yell and waited for her to come down. We immediately began heading towards my son. Of course, he finally heard me yelling and came running.

    When asked who he was talking to, he replied, "My friend's dad." What friend, I immediately asked. "The girl I met on the slide." Where is she, I asked. "Over there on the slide." I was scared and upset all at once. Did I not explain to him the dangers of talking to strangers? Does he not realize the amount of kids taken each day? Is it fair to ask him not to be friendly? Is it fair to take away his naive view to the world as a five-year-old?

    My husband and I realied that we weren't living in an age of innocence anymore and really don't remember a time when there was one. Therefore, we decided to have the stranger talk with our son before bedtime.

    The next day, my son and I would watch first hand the fear and terror of losing a child. Our mall has a play area for kids - complete with squishy floors, slides and animals to jump on. As we entered the mall that day to play, we heard a woman screaming hysterically. One of her three kids was missing. My son held on to my leg as we watched this woman, with the help of all the other mothers in the crowd, tearfully look for this little lost girl. The good news is that the girl was found in a toy store. She had gotten out of the play area and, as a three-year-old, could not resist the toys. Her mother just sat holding her crying. The girl did not even realize why her mom was so upset.

    It really got me to thinking. How do we teach our kids safety without scaring them? Is it more important to take away their innocence about what the world is really like? I think it has to be done. So here are a few tips that I am doing with my children.

    Personal Information
    It is essential that your children know your first and last names, not just mommy or daddy, as well as their own first and last names, at the very least. As soon as they can learn, teach them their phone number and address.

    Who is safe?
    Teach kids that if lost they can always go to a police man, security guard, teacher or even the person behind a cash register to call out your name. Teach them not to talk to adults who they do not know unless you are there with them.

    Practice
    Teach them that it is ok to scream if an adult approaches them and makes them feel uneasy. Practice what they should do if an adult approaches them without a parent present. Teach them to run immediately to their mom and dad. Other parents will not be offended because they realize the danger as well. Also, lecture the importance of staying close to mom and dad.

    What belongs to them
    Teach kids that any area covered by clothes is their private area and should not be shown or touched by anyone. Anytime someone makes them feel uncomfortable they should tell you. They should not be embarrassed or ashamed. After all, it wasn't their fault.

    Inform caregivers
    Make sure those watching your child, either in a daycare setting or babysitting in a home, know who is allowed to pick up your child in case of emergencies.

    Follow rules
    No matter where the child is, explain the importance of following rules. Explain how rules are set up for their safety and when rules are not followed harm can result. Explain that it is imperative for children to follow the rules at school or even with you. As a teacher, it was heartbreaking to hear about kids getting hit by a bus or not being in the right line and being sent to the wrong neighborhood.

    Be suspicious
    Inform kids to stay away from cars when playing outside. If one stops by them, they are to immediately run inside. Also teach them to never take candy from a stranger and to know that just because an adult knows their name does not mean they are safe to be around.

    Kids are never too young to have these types of conversations. Unfortunately, in our society, there are too many who are willing to hurt a child. It is, of course, a parent's worse fear to lose a child. It brings me to tears to think of all who have.

    Originally posted by: SaltLakeCityMommies
    Friday, September 23, 2011

    Ten Steps for Developing Good Study Habits

    Your child can expect to spend more than thirteen years going through school from pre-school to high school. How he/she performs during those thirteen years determines how well she’ll do in college and later in life. Grades are extremely important when determining scholarships or if
    internships are granted. But how can you ensure your child will do well in her/his classes? The first step for great performance in school and college is to learn good study habits. The sooner your child learns good study habits, the sooner she’ll/he'll start making the grades and opening the doors to opportunities.

    There are basically ten steps to developing good study habits.

    1. Understand the necessity of studying- As a parent, you must convey to your child as soon as possible why studying is important. You must also be interested in school; your child will take an interest because you do. The earlier he/she becomes interested in school the better. Keep the child motivated to achieve his/her goals, not only in life but also in classes. One way of doing this is writing down where your child wants to be in five years. For younger children, try next year or even a few months. The important thing is to get the child used to developing goals. For older students, the issue becomes what profession does he/she want to study? Writing down a list of goals will serve as a reminder to study your child of what she/he wants to achieve and is a great motivator when she/he doesn't feel like studying.

    2. Pay Attention- Pay attention to the lectures in class. Be attentive, to what the teacher is going over in class.

    3. Plan out a time and place to study- Locate a place where your child can study. If possible this area should be specifically designated for studying. The child must go to this area everyday at the same time to devote to studying. You are building up a habit of when your child is in this area at a certain time, he/she is there to study.

    4. Do Homework Immediately- As soon your child arrives at home, start on homework. If the child plays sports, homework should be performed as soon as you arrive home from practice. If other items are placed before completing the homework, the child may forget to complete his/her homework. Once homework is behind, it is sometimes difficult to catch up.

    5. Know the Weak and Strong Subjects- Know your child's weak and strong subjects. Devote more time to the weak subjects.

    6. Sleep- Make sure your child is getting enough sleep. Being tired during classes makes it difficult to be attentive during class and makes it even harder to study later on.

    7. Do Practice Tests- If a test is coming up, make up practice tests to take at home during the study time. Concentrate on the missed questions and concentrate on those areas.

    8. No cramming!- Your child should study for a test or quiz as soon as it is announced that one is approaching. Cramming for a test undermines student confidence and produces a great deal of stress the day of the test.

    9. Take Notes- Assist your child with writing notes. Writing notes provide key points to refer back to when studying, and contrary to popular belief, note taking must be taught. No one is born knowing how to take notes. Notes also provide questions for the practice test. Notes should also be taken during lectures.

    10. Repeat steps 1-9- Repeating steps one through nine each day will help develop good study habits. Remember it’s never too young to start developing study habits.


    Nicole Givens “Ten Steps to Good Study Habits”
    It is essential in today’s competitive markets that individuals develop good studying habits for all aspects of life, not just high school or college. For what better test to pass than the test of life.

    Ten Online Websites for Homework Help:
    1. Find homework help for all subjects and grade levels from AOL (http://school.aol.com).
    2. DiscoverySchool (http://school.discovery.com/homeworkhelp/bjpinchbeck/) assists students with homework in Science, English, Computer Internet, even PE and much more.
    3. About.com (http://www.about.com/homework) is also a great place for homework help. They offer an expanded list of subjects that they give assistance in.
    4. Homeworkhelp.com (http://www.homeworkhelp.com) offers homework help (like it name implies) but you must be a member to receive assistance. The membership isn’t free, but you receive access to teachers.
    5. bigchalk.com (http://www.bigchalk.com) provides homework assistance. The site is divided into three categories: elementary, middle and high school.
    6. Homework Spot (http://www.homeworkspot.com) is the spot for all subjects. They even offer a reference desk for finding information.
    7. Algebra.com (http://www.algebra.com) is a website devoted to assisting students with their algebra homework. This includes pre-algebra, algebra and algebra II.
    8. National Geographic Kids (http://www.nationalgeographic.com/education/homework) offers help in the areas of maps, geography, animals and other social sciences.
    9. Math.com (http://www.math.com) boasts that it is the “world of math” location. Indeed they offer help with all levels of math including Calculus and Trigonometry.
    10. KidsClick (http://sunsite.berkeley.edu/KidsClick!/) is a searchable website developed for students by librarians. This is sure to offer some answers for those tough homework English questions.

    Originally posted by: CharlotteMommies
    Monday, September 19, 2011

    Menu Monday Potato Pierogi


    Potato Pierogi

    Ingredients:
    2 1/2 pounds red potatoes, halved
    2 tablespoons butter
    2 onions, chopped
    1/2 pound bacon, chopped
    6 ounces mild cheddar cheese
    2 cups flour
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1 cup warm water
    1/4 corn oil

    Cooking Instructions:
    Boil the potatoes until well done, drain and mash with butter. Set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat cook the onions and bacon together. Reserve 1/2 cup of mixture for spooning over the cooked pierogi. Add the remaining bacon and onions to the potatoes. Stir the cheese into the potato mixture. Mix well. Chill until very cold. Mix flour and salt in large bowl. Make a well in the middle. Pour water and oil into the well. Mix together. Add more flour, 1/2 cup at a time until dough is firm. Knead dough until mixture does not stick to hands. Cover tightly and let stand for 1/2 hour in a warm place. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut in 2-inch diameter circles. Add 1 teaspoon filling, fold over 1 half of circle and press the edges together to seal. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add 1 tablespoon oil, then add pierogi. Stir occasionally to pierogi won't stick to the bottom. When perogi rise to the top, add 1 cup cold water to stop the cooking. Remove the perogi with a slotted spoon. Perogi will cook in 3 to 4 minutes. Serve topped with reserved onion-bacon mixture.

    Recipe submitted by "Sarah" to The Mommies Network recipe database.
    Monday, September 12, 2011

    Menu Monday Australian Lime Pie


    Potato Pierogi

    Ingredients:
    2 1/2 pounds red potatoes, halved
    2 tablespoons butter
    2 onions, chopped
    1/2 pound bacon, chopped
    6 ounces mild cheddar cheese
    2 cups flour
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1 cup warm water
    1/4 corn oil

    Cooking Instructions:
    Boil the potatoes until well done, drain and mash with butter. Set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat cook the onions and bacon together. Reserve 1/2 cup of mixture for spooning over the cooked pierogi. Add the remaining bacon and onions to the potatoes. Stir the cheese into the potato mixture. Mix well. Chill until very cold. Mix flour and salt in large bowl. Make a well in the middle. Pour water and oil into the well. Mix together. Add more flour, 1/2 cup at a time until dough is firm. Knead dough until mixture does not stick to hands. Cover tightly and let stand for 1/2 hour in a warm place. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut in 2-inch diameter circles. Add 1 teaspoon filling, fold over 1 half of circle and press the edges together to seal. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add 1 tablespoon oil, then add pierogi. Stir occasionally to pierogi won't stick to the bottom. When perogi rise to the top, add 1 cup cold water to stop the cooking. Remove the perogi with a slotted spoon. Perogi will cook in 3 to 4 minutes. Serve topped with reserved onion-bacon mixture.

    Recipe submitted by "Sarah" to The Mommies Network recipe database.
    Tuesday, September 6, 2011

    Everyone Deserves a Second Chance!

    The Mommies Network would like to thank everyone who participated in the National Auction! Twenty-five percent of the proceeds from the auction will go to support Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep. The remaining 75 percent of funds raised will be used to further The Mommies Network mission to provide a safe, secure, FREE place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empower them to be better women, parents, and community leaders.
     
    The Mommies Network National Auction received a number of last-minute donations! These new items, along with some previously listed, will go up for sale in a limited-time Second Chance Auction! Get your shop on Sept. 5–11 on the National Forum!
    Click here to shop today!
    Friday, September 2, 2011

    Labor Day History

    As the Industrial Revolution took hold of the nation, the average American in the late 1800s worked 12-hour days, seven days a week in order to make a basic living. Children were also working, as they provided cheap labor to employers and laws against child labor were not strongly enforced.

    With the long hours and terrible working conditions, American unions became more prominent and voiced their demands for a better way of life. On Tuesday September 5, 1882, 10,000 workers marched from city hall to Union Square in New York City, holding the first-ever Labor Day parade. Participants took an upaid day-off to honor the workers of America, as well as vocalize issues they had with employers. As years passed, more states began to hold these parades, but Congress would not legalize the holiday until 12 years later.

    On May 11, 1894, workers of the Pullman Palace Car Company in Chicago struck to protest wage cuts and the firing of union representatives. They sought support from their union led by Eugene V. Debs and on June 26 the American Railroad Union called a boycott of all Pullman railway cars. Within days, 50,000 rail workers complied and railroad traffic out of Chicago came to a halt. On July 4, President Grover Cleveland dispatched troops to Chicago. Much rioting and bloodshed ensued, but the government's actions broke the strike and the boycott soon collapsed. Debs and three other union officials were jailed for disobeying the injunction. The strike brought worker's rights to the public eye and Congress declared, in 1894, that the first Monday in September would be the holiday for workers, known as Labor Day.

    The founder of Labor Day remains unclear, but some credit either Peter McGuire, co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, or Matthew Maguire, a secretary of the Central Labor Union, for proposing the holiday.

    Although Labor Day is meant as a celebration of the labor movement and its achievements, it has come to be celebrated as the last, long summer weekend before Autumn.

    Originally posted by: AlamanceMommies

    OceansideMommies hopes you have a safe and unlaboring labor day!


    Thursday, September 1, 2011

    Moms' 6 biggest sleep mistakes and how to fix them!

    You are how you sleep. It's the one-third of your life that most affects the two others. Of course, when your kids are young and you need lots of energy to get through the day, getting a good night's rest can be challenging.

    If you're not sleeping well, you're not alone:

    ̢ۢ Two-thirds of women report symptoms of insomnia at least a few nights a week.

    ̢ۢ The average woman over age 30 sleeps only six hours and 41 minutes a night. No doubt, moms of babies or toddlers are lucky to get that much!

    As a mom, some of the very things you do in the name of good parenting can compromise your sleep. Here are some common mistakes moms make, and how to fix them so you can sleep like a baby, or, even better, like a well-rested adult. (Parenting.com: Guaranteed ways to get decent rest.)

    Mistake: Trying to get everything done after the kids go to bed "As soon as my daughters are tucked in at eight, I clean, iron, pay the bills, and so on," says Mercedes Gray, a mom of three in Ontario, California. Instead of winding down before her own bedtime, she speeds up. By 11 p.m., Gray says, "I'm so keyed up that it takes me a while to fall asleep."

    A better approach: Don't use all of your free time to multitask. Just as your child needs a bedtime routine that settles her down for the night, so do you. "Thirty to sixty minutes before your bedtime, begin to do things that relax you," says Clete Kushida, M.D., director of the Stanford University Center for Human Sleep Research. "Take a bath, read quietly, watch a favorite show, whatever works. If possible, minimize your exposure to bright light during this time. Follow a similar pattern every night and your body gets conditioned to expect that it's time for bed, so you'll fall asleep more easily." If you have a snack, try small portions of low-fat carbs, such as toast with a little jam or cereal with milk. Want a drink? Chamomile tea and honey are both natural sedatives. Just don't eat a big meal within three hours of going to bed. Digesting a large amount of food has been shown to make you less sleepy.

    Mistake: Staying in your child's room until he falls asleep Your child will become dependent on you to nod off. And when he awakens in the middle of the night (as everyone does), he won't be able to fall back to sleep on his own. Not only will you not get enough sleep, but it'll also be fragmented, and not very restorative. (Parenting.com: How to keep your preschooler out of your bed. )

    A better approach: Pave the way for your child to sleep in his own room by himself. "Stick to a specific bedtime," says Dr. Kushida. "Tell him that if he needs to use the bathroom or get a drink of water, he should do it beforehand. Follow a soothing routine -- perhaps a bath and reading together -- then say good night and leave." Naturally, your child isn't going to like this at first. When my son, Liam, was a toddler, we got into the habit of playing a tape of kids' songs to lull him to sleep. The problem? If he woke up during the night, the music wouldn't be on, and he'd yell "Tape!" in a blood-curdling scream. My husband or I would run to play the tape, bleary-eyed from the interrupted sleep. So we decided to cut him off cold turkey, which involved two horrible nights of Liam crying himself to sleep. We felt like the worst parents in the world. By the third night, though, he grumbled a little and started to snooze in about five minutes. So stay firm. Your child will eventually adapt to your new routine and everyone will catch more zzz's.

    Mistake: Sleeping late on the weekends when your husband can watch the kids Of course it's tempting, and you deserve the break. But sleep regularity is just as important as sleep quantity, says Amy Wolfson, Ph.D., author of "The Woman's Book of Sleep." "If you've been sleep-deprived all week, getting a little extra on the weekends may be beneficial. But don't overdo it, or you'll throw off your sleep/wake cycle and Monday morning will be brutal."

    A better approach: By all means, take your husband up on the offer. Just don't sleep in longer than one hour, which is enough to make you feel refreshed. Consider doing something else with the extra time -- take a walk with a friend or read the Sunday paper uninterrupted.

    Mistake: Not exercising at all or exercising too close to bedtime Physical activity can help you nod off more easily and improve the quality of your sleep. How? No one knows for sure, but there are theories: It may help regulate your body's circadian rhythms. Or, because exercise raises body temperature during the day, your body may try to lower its temperature at night, which makes you drowsy. Or perhaps exercise cuts down on anxiety and other problems that may interfere with sleep. Exercising close to your bedtime, though, can make you too wired and your body too warm to sleep. (Parenting.com: Making fitness fun. )

    A better approach: Be active during the day if possible, but not within two to three hours of bedtime. In a recent study, women who worked out first thing in the morning reaped the most sleep benefits. If you take your child to preschool every day and you don't have to rush to work, wear workout clothes and exercise right after. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes per day of aerobic activity. Even a brisk 10-minute walk three times a day helps. To fit exercise into her busy day, Lynn Lombard of Akron, New York, turned her basement -- where she keeps exercise equipment -- into a playroom for her 4-year-old. "That's the only place in the house where Amanda's allowed to paint or use Play-Dough, so she loves being down there, and I get to work out in peace." She also started planning dinners in advance, so she has more time to work out.

    Mistake: Napping when your baby naps This classic advice applies only when you're getting up every few hours at night to feed your newborn. Once he's a few months old and sleeping longer -- and especially if he's sleeping through the night and you are, too-- you don't need to nap much. Babies should get about 15 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. You need about eight. If you snooze for three hours during the day, you may have trouble sleeping at night.

    A better approach: If you're tired, take a catnap at about the same time every day. Ten to 20 minutes will help you feel refreshed for another couple of hours. Doze much longer than that and you can wake up feeling groggy and worse than you did before.

    Mistake: Ignoring your health issues You'd never miss a well-baby checkup, but when was your last physical? Many treatable conditions interfere with a good night's sleep, including PMS, asthma, restless leg syndrome and bladder problems. (Going to the bathroom once in the middle of the night is normal; going three or four times is not.) About 50 percent of people who have chronic insomnia have an underlying psychiatric issue, such as anxiety disorder or depression. (Parenting.com: Why you shouldn't lie to your doctor. )

    A better approach: See your doctor if you think any health concerns are affecting your sleep. All of the problems mentioned above can be helped with medication and lifestyle changes. Says Nancy Collop, M.D., spokeswoman for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. "You don't have to suffer."

    Originally posted by: LakeNormanMommies

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