National Geographic

These actually came in just before the holidays...

 

We were lucky enough to be able to get a discount on a two-year subscription. I hope the previous month, the anniversary, and January coming in on the same day doesn't eat up three months (out of the 24 month) subscription. I was thinking about adding the children's National Geographic. They got one free from the mall Santa, but it much like the adult version has less content compared to the ads (was much better when I was a kid). However, I like the idea of stickers, but doubt the subscription will compare to the free version given.

 

The kids are a little advanced with their understanding of the world around them. Plus, we prefer to give them materials above their understanding when possible. I want to check into the Encyclopedia Britannica. When I was growing up I remember the books and the computer version, it opens up a portion of the world most kids will never see.

Christmas 2012

There is something enchanting about children, especially around the holidays. They have this innate belief in a figure that comes down the chimney, that elves can make toys, and that wishing on a star can come true. They've yet to become jaded by the reality of the world which is refreshing to adults.

 

 

This year the boys did the usual traditions. We visited Santa, where they gave their wish list. The yearly picture was taken before we all scampered back to the car.

 

Plenty of time and thought was put into choosing gifts for the children. Each child's strengths (educational toys), to things they adore (likes), and even taking into consideration how each one is advanced... when making a choice of what will go under the tree.

 

 

We had some diversity added to our home. The school introduced our kindergartener to "Christmas Around the World" (Germany, Italy, China, etc). Which meant we had to go beyond what we now perceive as a narrow scope... we told them about our traditions, Jewish, and Kwanzaa. I am grateful he learn a bit past what we've already told him about, which will give him a greater respect towards others as an adult.

 

This season, my youngest wanted a dreidel. I went as far as to track down a synagogue because normal shops don't sell them for some reason. He wanted one, and he adores the song. Even the pet shops have them in the dog sections, plushy dreidels that sing the song. But I can't buy him a "dog toy". Still need one... he wants a metal one.

 

This year we focused on "giving" to others. We took small things we were given, re-gifted them to those we know would love them (See's candy, nut array, and gift cards). This way the spirit of the season was continuously passed to the next person. We also found various ways to give back, donated to charities, and taught the kids the real "reason for the season". Unfortunately, this is the only time most think about those in need. And the only time lower wage earners make good tips. We took some of our tips and invested them back into others... ~*Karma*~

 

~*MERRY CHRISTMAS*~... and may everyone's New Year be blessed!!! We'll be doing black-eyed peas to hopefully reign in the good fortune for our family!



Christmas Cupcakes

SnowFlake Sugar Cookies

 

All was ready, the dough, frosting, and snowflake cookie cutters...

 

 

I followed the directions, even added flour to the counter, in hopes that all would turn out like the picture on the package.

 

 

I was horrified the cookies didn't turn out properly. They look more like flowers from the 1960s.

 

 

I went ahead and frosted the cookies. I tried my best to "keep in the spirit" of holiday cookies.

 

 

 

The best part is letting the kids decorate, sprinkles, and have entertainment.

This past week we first did a "Kids Shopping" with the boys school, they were each given $20, only spent about $10 each, and remainder was donated to the cause. Which I'd like to add was a good one. I know we'll get recycled gifts (I can tell 2 are VHS tapes and we don't own a VCR)... but the fact they did something nice for us is what is more important.
 

~*Double Score*~

 

Than, because the kids are more into doing charity this year their daddy told them about what Raley's is doing! If you donate $10, they match you, and $20 worth of groceries help feed families. http://www.foodforfamilies.org & http://www.facebook.com/raleysfoodforfamilies

 

Raley's also offers a bear you can buy for $9.99 (basically $10) and they'll than donate $5. We chose to stick to what would be about giving the most, and not about "getting something in return". I will add, this was a first for us... and I enjoy adding another thing that helps teach our children to think of others above themselves.

 

The downside to this specific experience is that it is less "hands on". Which means a lot more explaining on our part. We had to explain that what we give is doubled. Than that donation in turn will feed someone that is not as blessed as they are, without giving pity. Our biggest goal through it all is that our children will be less self absorbed, think and do for others, and be better members of their community (and society).

 

 

Be An Angel

 

Tonight we went to the store and the boys got to be an angel. We explained what daddy did, and how mommy asked it be an older child (who'll soon age out), and how they get to do something special. We first picked up a double pack of axe body wash, than a black hoodie sweater, and finally a watch. The hardest part was trying to figure out what kind of watch a young man would like (that we don't know and will never meet).

 

 We feel that next to educating our children, teaching them to volunteer, and to do acts of kindness towards others is best. We love how they have empathy towards others, learn to look past their own needs... and yes, our middle son is still growing out his hair to donate to "Locks of Love".

 

 

Angel Information

(916) 482-2370 ext 303

http://www.crhkids.org

 

Another thing we like to do is donate gently used clothes and toys directly to the "Children's Receiving Home" 3555 Auburn Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95821. I am hoping with my heart that more will do the same!  

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9 ways to teach charity

How to teach Children about Charity

Teach your Child the Charity Habit

Ideas for Children Volunteering

Peanut butter Cookies

 

My middle child wants to be a chef when he grows up (and a firefighter), so every chance he gets, he cooks something! This time he wanted to make peanut butter cookies. We chose a pre-packaged this time in order to save on time. Next time we'll make it fresh...

 

 

He enjoyed added the few ingredients together, using the handheld mixer, and a feeling of accomplishment.

 

 

I explained to him, that much like when we make Snickerdoodle cookies, you roll it in a ball in your hand... but instead of rolling it in cinnamon sugar he smashes them down with the tines of a fork.

 

 

The first batch that went through was a learning experience. The bigger ones were just fine but the smaller ones burned a little on the bottom. It didn't take long for him to get them all just perfect.

 

 

 

I was grateful for the bonding time with my son... and extremely thankful that he is ambitious, intellectual, and creative/imaginative. But, I love his sense of adventure in always trying new things without fear.

Cute Christmas paper Chain

 

My youngest son made this at school, where each night you remove a ring, until Christmas Eve.

How many days 'til Christmas? There's a way you can be told: Take off a link each evening. Before the night gets cold, and Christmas Eve will be here By the time you reach GOLD!

 

 

I love it when the kids do cute little activities like this, and this was much better than we planned to do with the kids... daddy will still do activities with them using construction paper. And I'm hoping we can string popcorn this year!

Sugar Cookies

~*Mmm*~... there is nothing better than the smell of sugar cookies baking in the oven, to make it feel like home!!!

 

 

The boys rolled out the dough, used cookie cutters, and baked sugar cookies! Than they added frosting and sprinkles to their creations.

 

 

There is nothing more important than to cherish these moments, before they are all grown up, and to allow them a chance to have enjoyment while creating memories.

 

 

When I was growing up the holidays were a time when we all got together over a hot oven. We'd all make the same recipes, compete, and eat the rewards. I hope to over time create the same loving environment, free spirit, and memories for our children.

 

~*Traditions*~

Children and Charity

We're still not entirely sure where our child has learned about locks of love, or that he can grow out and donate his hair, but he announced a couple weeks back that he's growing his hair out (and refused to go and get it cut).

My husband planned to get all the boys' hair cut the following day. When our son announced to his daddy that he would not be getting his done, explained that he's growing it out, and he'll be donating his hair. At first we were shocked, and said nothing to anyone, but mostly we figured he'd change his mind. I personally figured he was trying to have some control in and over his life, but as time passed we both realized he might just be serious.

My husband and I talked about this, without any kids around, and went over all our concerns. First of all he is a seven-year-old little boy, peer pressure is starting to become a factor, and if he follows through he needs at least ten inches of hair past the ponytail (so he'll need more that can pull back and form into one). There are so many factors to take into consideration, and he is a child (with a child's mentality), and for all we know he can change his mind at any time.

 

He is such an amazing little boy!!! He loves to do charity/volunteer work, he's always looking for ways to do things for others, and he is turning into a great little person. His father and I are so proud of the child we are raising...

 

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First let me say, there are many great places to volunteer, and find ways children can volunteer. We're in a few groups, and if children are not allowed I'll check my husband schedule to see if I can do it, but we're always on the look out for things our children can do to give back to their community.

 

Charity Navigator

 

Charity Watch

 

Locks Of Love

 

Volunteer Center of Sacramento

 

Volunteer Match

 

Sacramento Food Bank

 

City of Sacramento Volunteer Opportunities

 

Sacramento Zoo Volunteering

 

 

Learned How to Tie Shoes

 

Youngest Ties Shoes

 

My youngest child in just a couple hours learned today... How to tie his shoes!!!

 

~*Cheers*~ ... ~*Applause*~ ... ~*Congratulate*~

 

Basically my middle child needed new shoes, the main part requires him to tie his shoes, and it has velcro at the top. He chose his shoes because he no longer wanted to pick shoes that light up as he runs (apparently those are now for babies). He's so fixated on becoming older.

 

My youngest son struck up an interest and in just a couple hours he accomplished his goal. I have to admit, it took a short time with his daddy, wanting to be like his big brother, and I offered him a reward (positive reinforcement). We didn't need to do things like we had with the previous children, and never pushed him to learn, figured he could wear velcro shoes that light up as he runs until he was ready.

 

Today was his day... ~*Praise*~

 

Now he is currently sitting by the front door, tying shoe after shoe, and by morning we'll all need extra time to get off to school and work. Worth it...

 

 

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Bunny Ears

 

Ribbon Box Idea

 

Shoe Lace Methods

 

Video

 

Wikihow with pics

Dragon Fruit

 

We love having the kids try new things, adventures in food... Dragon Fruit won this time!

 

 

The boys didn't know what to expect, the flesh is like a white kiwi, but without flavor of its own. The texture is the same too... so we sprinkled on sugar.

 

Life is about trying new things, indulging in things that are pleasurable, and having fun... living! Dragon fruit has a much better look and name than the actual process of eating. But, the boys can now know they've conquered one more experience (and flavor).

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How to Eat

 

Nutritional Value

 

Diary of a Wimpy Kid "The Third Wheel"

~*Score*~... found the book, cheaper than most local stores!!! My children are absolutely in love with this author's series of books... so tonight they get to also count it towards their reading for homework at school.

Hot Cocoa and Shortbread Cookies

As the rain came down, we heated up the hot cocoa, and Costco has chocolate dipped shortbread cookies... to die for!

 

Basically, we would have done the mini cinnamon rolls, but had to literally flip a coin (as other customers watched me try and restore civility between my kids). Even though my middle son won, the little one threw an even bigger fit, and thankfully the middle child was willing to give up his choice (I asked they choose one so we don't fill up on naughty food at home).

 

I honestly didn't think that I would like the cookies, but the taste is divine! It has a perfect crispness, delicate moisture content (buttery), and I can taste a hint of almond extract. I am actually glad that it squished my negative thoughts. Than to make the experience even better, a woman let me cut in line, before having to make the mad dash to the car in the downpour outside. Anyone who shops Costco knows it is hard to get out under $100, the lines are crazy long (they even removed the self check out which used to speed up our process), and if you are like me it is hard to get around other customers in the isles (they tend to walk slower, and if you make a list and get specific things, it slows down the power walk I love and squeeze in). But I have to admit, there were less congregating around free samples, I got in and out fast, and it was a truly positive experience.

 

Thanks to the lovely woman who let me cut in line, I hope she is blessed for her act of kindness...

Watching TV & Snuggle Time

Sometimes a child needs a day to simply cuddle on a couch, watch something that they enjoy, and just get lost in the moments of life...

 

My boys say around in pajamas (one in his underwear), they ate left over Halloween candy, and got lost in being little boys! They had action packed thoughts from Spiderman, they exercised their brain muscle with I Spy, and we all had bonding moments... just being silly.

Halloween Candy to Trash

Better late than never, and I've been meaning to post this, but life has been busy!

 

This is just an idea of unsafe candy, that needs to be thrown away... lollipops that can be unwrapped and re-wrapped, foil candies, Tootsie rolls, boxed candy that can be re-glued after being opened, and  gum.

 

 

I know boxed candy seems like it is safe, but there it no way to truly tell if it was carefully opened, than glued shut...

 

When I was a kid Pixie Stix were soaked in things, dried, than handed out to kids... I toss all I find in the trash to stay on the safe side.

 

To be perfectly honest, and I know there are many parents that get upset, but to safest thing is to throw all candy from strangers away and hit the 50% off sales the day after. I know some people get in an uproar because they actually bought the candy, and we don't buy the cheap stuff (not many trick or treat'ers so we get stuck with leftovers)... but it would not hurt my feelings if other parents did the same. It makes no sense to give something than dictate what a person does with it.

 

This just gives an idea of how to go through Halloween candy, what to throw away, and what to keep... look for pin holes, glue spots, and anything partially open... never eat it while still going door to door!