My good friend Katelyn Fagan, author of the fabulous blog What's Up Fagans?, asked me to share how my husband and I managed to create a successful budget that we could actually stick to in the long run. So I started telling her that it all began back when my husband and I did pre-marital counseling there was a whole session talking [...]
Archives for September 2014
5 Steps to Stop Toddler Biting in its Tracks
A biting toddler is no joke, friends. A while back I wrote about How to Get a Baby to Stop Biting, and after using the steps I discussed in that post, we effectively managed to stop our son from biting. Funny enough at the end of that post I wrote, “I am vigorously reinforcing ‘No biting’ and keeping a very watchful eye, as biting will [...]
10 Empowering Ways to Improve Toddler Listening
Entering into the toddler years presents a whole new set of parenting challenges, especially when your toddler doesn't listen. Many days when I wonder if I'll ever learn how to make kids listen. I enjoy a good challenge. So there's that. Our listening journey started the moment my son started to run around the house checking to [...]
5 Ways to Help your Child Value Good Character over Good Looks
When I first see a baby or a toddler I often find myself mentioning something about the child’s physical appearance or clothing. It’s interesting isn’t it… If you find yourself doing the same thing, you are not alone. I think the majority of us will whole-heartedly admit that this is a common topic of conversation when speaking to a [...]
How to Teach Kids to Play Independently Late or After a Long Hiatus
Those of you, who read my post called Teaching Kids to Play Independently, already know that independent play is something we started early on in our son’s life. While I cannot remember off the top of my head, I would like to say we started around the 2 month mark. Yes, you can start that early or even earlier! In fact, starting [...]
Military Moves Overseas: 7 Major Mistakes to Avoid
Moving to a new duty station can be a really fun and exciting time for many families. Military moves overseas are challenging, difficult and stressful, even if you are truly excited about your new duty station. We just PCS'd to Okinawa, Japan and it was a whirlwind to say the least. Preparing emotionally in the months leading up to our [...]
Mom’s on Vacation #3: Pure Bliss for 24 Hours
When Lauren asked me to write about one of my mom’s days away, I was so excited. Then I remembered my favorite day away and felt embarrassed. There was no broadway show. No fancy restaurant. No mani, pedi, or blow out at the Dry Bar. After feeling rather pathetic for a few minutes it dawned on me. I love travelling, seeing the world, and [...]
Mom’s on Vacation #2: One Amazing Weekend Away
Today I'd like to introduce you all to my friend Ali! She is a fabulous blogger from Mom Explores Virginia Beach, and today she is sharing her story about taking a little bit of time to invest in herself and recharge. #9 already has me dreaming about my next "me" day! I think it is super important to be completely involved in your [...]
5 Crazy Basic Ways to Make Friends After PCSing
Moving every few years in military life puts a real dent in your local friendships. Unless you already know people at your upcoming duty station, you're basically back to "dating" to try and find military spouse friends. A big fat ZERO starring you in the face when it comes friends and family nearby. That can be really tough. I’ve moved [...]