My Thumb Sucker

This was originally posted on Philly Moms Blog in March 2010. Middle is working very hard to stop sucking his thumb, his choice. This week, we're trying the bandaid trick. Its working. We'll see what happens when he takes off the bandaid. Middle sucks his thumb. Actually, according to him, he "ducks his dumb." He's four. People tell me he won't suck at graduation and he won't suck at his wedding, and I'm counting on that. At four, I'm not going to punish him for sucking. I'm not even … [Read more...]

On my Grandfather's Birthday…

Today would have been my grandfather's 95th birthday. He passed away last fall. He was a wonderful man. "Uncle" to everyone, and beloved by them all. I know how fortunate I am to have had him in my life, and I value the memories my children were able to create with him. Originally, I published this on October 28, 2009, when the Huz and I shared the news of his death with the boys on Philly Moms Blog.  Happy Birthday Pop-pop. "Boys," called my husband, "Come back to the table! Family meeting … [Read more...]

Sometimes "No" isn't all they hear

I wrote this last spring in response to a post by Whitney, about saying "no" to volunteering. My post, originally posted on Philly Moms Blog, was focused on cutting back on commitments and memberships. Whitney's PMB post, Learning to Just Say No, from Monday night struck a cord. Whitney and I have been friends since our oldests were 4 months old. We've been parts of the same playgroups, MOMS Club, and PTOs. We've served on numerous boards and committees together. For the past 5 years we've … [Read more...]

Fruit Smoothie Snackin'

After school snack is usually so simple, right? The kids come home, they grab something from the pantry, snack on it, then come back about 45 minutes later looking for something else to snack on. About 3 hours later, after all that snacking, its not always guaranteed they'll eat dinner. And, often, its because they've already had a little of this, and little of that, and not too much of healthy. I'd always heard that people made smoothies and blends for snacks, but it was too much work. I'd … [Read more...]

SnOMG part 2. I'm ready.

Remember the huge storms of winter 2010? Will we see as strong of snowstorms again this winter? Will your township be able to handle it? Yesterday's storm predictions reminded me of this post, originally posted in February 2010 on Philly Moms Blog. Curious if the towns hit hard east of Philly were prepared. Even more curious if my township was.  Monday my sister called. She was really concerned: Did you fill your fridge? How busy was the grocery store tonight? Will you be okay? I may eat my … [Read more...]

Menu Plan Monday

Not sure how many meals we'll be around home for this week, so I'm preparing for an average week of 4 cooked meals, with leftovers in between. In a White Elephant Exchange last week, I "won" (do you win? or do you receive?) a George Foreman Grill. So, I'm planning to grill several times this week. How exciting! Grilled burgers in the snow! Also, the Huz "won" a Waring Professional Quality Food & Beverage Blender! Score! Tomorrow I'm posting our favorite simple recipe for healthy smoothie … [Read more...]