2012 Book Reading Goals

I have decided that this year I want to set a goal on how many books I read. I have my list all made up and I am working on it now. I know that I most likely won’t make it through all of these books by the end of the year, but I do expect to get through a lot of them. And besides, what I don’t get through this year can always be added to my list next year. But I want to get my list viewable to the public so that I feel more of a need to do it with so many knowing about it.

I have found I have more interests in non-fiction than I do with fiction, so my list is mainly that of non-fiction. But while working on my list, I hope to be able to incorporate new things in my life that I learn from these books and to challenge myself with new things.

My list for 2012:

• DONE: Beautiful You: A Daily Guide to Radical Self-Acceptance by Rosie Molinary
• How to Reach Your Full Potential for God by Charles F. Stanley
• StandOut: The Groundbreaking New Strengths Assessment from the Leader of Strengths Revolution by Marcus Buckingham
• DONE: The End of Molasses Classes: Getting Our Kids Unstuck: 101 Extraordinary Solutions for Parents and Teachers by Ron Clark
• Facing Your Giants: A David and Goliath Story for Everyday People by Max Lucado
• The Power of Simple Prayer: How to Talk with God About Everything by Joyce Meyer
• DONE: Six Ways to Keep the ‘Little’ in Your Girl by Dannah Gresh
• Break Your Own Rules: How to Change the Patterns of Thinking that Block Women’s Paths to Power by Jill Flynn
• Taking Christian Moral Thought Seriously: The Legitimacy of Religious Beliefs in the Marketplace of Ideas by Karen Dolby
• This I Believe: Life Lessons by Karen Dolby
• You Must Remember This: Easy Tricks and Proven Tips to Never Forget Anything, Ever Again by Karen Dolby
• Raising a Modern-Day Princess by Pam Farrel
• Five Conversations You Must Have with Your Daughter by Vicki Courtney
• Preparing Your Daughter for Every Women’s Battle: Creative Conversations About Sexual and Emotional Integrity by Shannon Ethridge
• The Hoarder in You by Robin Zasio
• Living in the Light by Shakti Gawain
• Thoughts and Feelings by Matthew McKay
• Finding Your Own North Star by Martha Beck
• List YourSelf by Ilene Segalove and Paul Bob Velick
• Developing the Leader Within You by John C. Maxwell
• The 10 Habits of Happy Mothers: Reclaiming Our Passion, Purpose, and Sanity by Meg Meeker, M.D.
• Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
• A Deeper Kind of Calm: Steadfast Faith in the Midst of Adversity by Linda Dillow
• Satisfy My Thirsty Soul: For I am Desperate for Your Presence by Linda Dillow
• Calm My Anxious Heart: A Women’s Guide to Finding Contentment by Linda Dillow
• What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst
• Good to Great in God’s Eyes: 10 Practices Great Christians Have in Common by Chip Ingram
• Jesus, the One and Only by Beth Moore
• How to Listen to God by Dr. Charles F. Stanley
• This Year I Will: How to Finally Change a Habit, Keep a Resolution, or Make a Dream Come True by M.J. Ryan
• One Thing at a Time: 100 Simple Ways to Live Clutter-Free Every Day by Cindy Glovinsky
• Living Simply: Choosing Less in a World of More by Joanne Heim
• Misplacing God: And Finding Him Again by Joanne Heim
• Reluctant Entertainer: Every Woman’s Guide to Simple and Gracious Hospitality by Sandy Coughlin
• Simplify You Life: 100 Ways to Slow Down and Enjoy the Things That Really Matter by Elaine St. James
• Inner Simplicity: 100 Ways to Regain Peace and Nourish Your Soul by Elaine St. James
• Simplicity by Mindy Caliquire
• A Praying Life: Connecting with God in a Distracting World by Paul Miller
• Spiritual Rhythm: Being with Jesus Every Season of Your Soul by Mark Buchanan
• Discovering Soul Care by Mindy Caliquire
• Spiritual Friendship by Mindy Caliquire
• Soul Searching by Mindy Caliquire
• Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices that Transform Us by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun
• Body Clutter: Love Your Body, Love Yourself by Marla Cilley and Leanne Ely
• Sink Reflections by Marla Cilley
• Walking on Air: Your 30-Day Inside and Out Rejuvenation Makeover by Susan Smith Jones, Ph.D. and Alexandra Stoddard
• The Mission of Motherhood: Touching Your Child’s Heart for Eternity by Sally Clarkson
• How to Shop for Free: Shopping Secrets for Smart Women Who Love to Get Something for Nothing by Kathy Spencer and Samantha Rose
• Fifteen Minutes Outside: 365 Ways to Get Out of the House and Connect with Your Kids by Rebecca Cohen
• A Life That Says Welcome: The Joy of Serving Others by Patricia A Ennis, Lisa Tatlock, and Dorothy Kelley Patterson
• 101 Things You Should Do Before Your Kids Leave Home by David Bordon and Tom Winters
• 500 Things to Do With Your Children Before They Grow Up by Linda Williams Aber and Corey McKenzie Aber
• I Love You Rituals by Becky A Bailey
• The Mindful Child: How to Help your Kid Manage Stress and Become Happier, Kinder, and More Compassionate by Susan K. Greenland
• Christi the Coupon Coach – Couponing Made Simple: Simple Steps to Successful Couponing by Christi L. Bassford
• Instant Bargains: 600+ Ways to Shrink Your Grocery Bills and Eat Well for Less by Kimberly Danger
• How to Receive Free Groceries by Sarah Holmes

So that is my list. No particular order to read them in. And to read as many as I can before the year is up… Even my daughter is determined to try this too. She’s got a list ready and awaiting me to help her look over it to make sure they are the right type of books for her.

So you have a list of books that you are wanting to read by the end of 2012?

10 Places I Would Love to Visit

Traveling is a wonderful thing to do; visiting new places, exploring different cultures, meeting new friends. It all brings such a joyous feeling that lasts for days.

During my 30 short years of life, I have only been on vacation two times and each time we stayed in the United States. I've been from Ohio up to Maine, down to Florida and back up to Ohio and to all the states between as a teenager. I got to see some amazing things, places, views, and meet some wonderful people. It's amazing what I learned throughout the different areas I went to. I only wish I had a camera at that time to have some visual memories, but I didn't. I only have memories safely tucked away in my mind to always remember. And that's what counts - the memories.

I would love to travel and visit other places as well. Not sure how likely it will happen, but you just never know. Here's my top 10 places that I would love to visit (not in any particular order):

1 - Devon, England
In all honesty, I never knew this place existed until after my daughter was born. I named my daughter Devon and then not long after she was born I decided I wanted to do a research on a country and Devon, England popped up.... Ever since then, I have had this dream of traveling there with my daughter, Devon.

2 - Australia
I have dreamed of going to Australia since I was a kid. Not sure if it was just the accent that done it for me or what, but I've always thought it would be a great place to visit.

3 - Greenland
Growing up I always thought of Greenland of this beautiful country covered in green grassy hills, beautiful summer view that we are using here (well, the weather any way), and lots of warm weather for lots of fun outside activities... But then I learned that Greenland is pretty much the opposite, it doesn't get very warm there and that the humidity is low thus making it feel a little warmer than it actually is. But still, I want to go... :)

4 - Iceland
Now, how can I not want to go to Iceland if I go to Greenland.... I think they go hand in hand; thinking one is the opposite of the other... But from what I've read, Iceland has breathe taking scenery and so much more. I would just love to go and learn about their country.

5 - Scotland
I don't know why, but I love the mix of colors that this country represents with their traditional dress, the bag pipes, and the landscapes. From pictures I've seen, this place is amazing!

6 - Germany
For the past 6 and a half years, I have known this lovely lady who lives in Germany. She's told us some of the fun things that goes on whereabouts where she is and it all sounded so wonderful. I've seen some pictures from someone who has also visited there and the sights and buildings where beautiful. And if I'm not mistaken, I think my family has a bit of German in us too. :)

7 - Kalalau Valley, Hawaii
Hawaii is another place I've dreamed of visiting. I hear it is so beautiful there. I think it would be a great place to just vacation on without bringing the kids...

8 - Tulum, Mexico
This place looks to peaceful and relaxing. What more could I ask for. It would be a wonderful break from everyday life and provide lasting memories and relaxation. Guess I can dream, huh?

9 - Yoho National Park, Canada
This would be a fantastic place to vacation if you are looking forward to the outdoor wonders - hiking, camping, mountain biking, and more. Now that I think of it, this would be my daughter's first pick if it was up to her...lol

10 - The Chillon Castle in Veytaux, Switzerland
I have always wanted to go inside of a ancient castle to see what it's like and just dream that I owned the place. What fun that would be? :) Just think, being able to walk on the inside and picture what it was like all those years ago. Amazing.



If you could pick 10 fascinating places to travel to, where would you choose?

Laughter is an Instant Vacation

Oh Thank Goodness, It's Not Just Me!

Rainy Day Activities

Rain sure puts a damper on any outdoor activity for the kids. Especially when there are strong winds and heavy rain and lightening. But finding some indoor activities can be a daunting task when the kids are rather picky and hard to please.

Here are some rainy day activities to try sometime:

• Do a jigsaw puzzle
• Read a book
• Color in some coloring books
• Play dress-up
• Have a talent contest
• Finger paint
• Make crafts
• Watch a movie
• Dance to some music
• Sing together
• Rummage through the toy box
• Make an inside tent/fort
• Play board/card games
• Tell stories
• Make your own word searches/puzzles
• Make/send a card to someone who needs a little encouragement/support
• Bake cookies
• Visit the library
• Go to the movie theater
• Visit a local mall and just hang out
• Visit family and friends
• Invite someone over
• Cook a meal together
• Go for a car ride
• Make paper doll chains and color each one different
• Have a tea party
• Play post office
• Visit a museum
• Visit historical buildings in your area

Anything to keep the kids busy and out of the rain when it's storming is a good thing.

Free Things To Do With Your Family

Times are hard for a lot of people right now. Money is tight and gas prices seem to be going up and up. But spending time with our children is something most of us parents want to make as lasting memories for them. Spending quality time together is a great thing to do.

Here is a list of free things to do with your children:

• Face paint
  
• Go to the library
• Have a picnic
• Visit a park
• Go on a hike
• Build an inside fort
• Have a pillow fight
• Bake cookies
• Make paper planes
• Play hide 'n seek
• Read a book together
• Watch a movie
• Visit a farm
• Write a letter
• Go to a ballgame
• Take pictures
• Go on a scavenger hunt
• Write a poem
• Go for a bike ride
• Take a boat ride
• Take a walk and record the sounds
• Keep a journal
• Make music with your pots and pans
• Blow up balloons with notes in them and pass them out to others
• Camp in your backyard
• Help an elderly neighbor with some cleaning
• Learn a new language
• Make an obstacle course in your backyard
• Go on a treasure hunt
• Read a story aloud to someone
• Have a themed party with items you have on hand
• Clean up a nature trail
• Set up a lemonade stand
• Learn a new sport
• Have a runway show
• Play dress-up
• Have a family game night
• Make your own bubbles
• Plant something
• Paint rocks and build a rock garden
• Chase fireflies
• Catch bugs
• Watch the clouds
• Count the stars
• Host a yard sale
• Fly a kite
• Invent a new board game
• Build a time capsule
• Act out a play
• Dig for fossils
• Write a song
• Tye-dye some white shirts or white socks
• Paint a picture
• Write a story
• Start a new collection
• Go swimming
• Run through sprinklers
• Have a cookout
• Write a fairy tale
• Bird watch
• Roast marshmallows
• Create a new holiday
• Scrapbook
• Learn origami
• Tell ghost stories in the dark
• Finger paint
• Pick flowers
• Play with some clay
• Color in coloring books
• Make some goop
• Make play dough
• Build a volcano
• Do some magic tricks
• Volunteer
• Have a dance party
• Water balloon fights
• Explore the neighborhood
• Have a shaving cream fight
• Learn to juggle
• Have a tickle fight
• Play frisbee
• Draw on the sidewalk with sidewalk chalk
• Melt crayons to different shapes
• Have a tea party
• Play in a creek
• Collect tadpoles
• Play with sock puppets
• Play flashlight tag
• Have a talent show
• Play kickball
• Have a walk-a-thon
• Visit with family and friends nearby
• Visit a local beach
• Play hopscotch
• Jump rope
• Play in the rain
• Play in the mud
• Take a tour of your town
• Take advantage of free concerts, plays, movies that go on in your town
• Go berry picking
  

What other things can you think of doing with your children that the cost is free?

My Daughter - A Model?

As far back as I can remember, my daughter has enjoyed being the center of attention and the focus of the camera - not shy one bit! Taking pictures of her is such a pleasure for me because I never know what shot I'm going to get due to her constantly posing - one pose right to the next - never a still moment.

This past week, we went to one of the local parks and I got some pictures.











<---This one I caught just in time as she was about to switch poses. I just love her attitude in it...lol















This one she decided that she wanted to get some pictures taken while she was on the ground. This one poses a sense of childhood wonder to me. --->

Cooking for the Freezer - June

Last summer I started doing some cooking for the freezer. I'd make extra of different foods or just cook up some meals and freeze them. I liked how it helped save me time with not having to prepare everything. Now when we want a meal that has already been prepared, we just have to pull it out of the freezer and let it thaw. After thawing, we just heat it up. Simple. And so much easier than having to cook a whole meal every day.

It's been a while since I've done any freezer cooking, and I'm in the mood to get some done this week. We started it on Monday with some marinated chicken that we put in the freezer for meals later on in the month or even next month. Those included 2 meals of honey lime chicken, 2 meals of teriyaki chicken, and 1 meal of Italian chicken - and they are all in the freezer as of this past Monday.

Today, we are working on some Brown Bag Burritos. We ended up doubling the recipe and adding an extra pound of hamburger, so in all we are making 5 pounds of hamburger worth for the burritos. Most of them will be stuck into the freezer after cooking and wrapping, but we'll also be having a couple for supper tonight as well.

Throughout the rest of the week, we hope to make some Breakfast Burritos, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins (we were going to do these either Monday or yesterday, but it was just too hot), Sloppy Joes, Chocolate Butterhorns, and Ham Macaroni & Cheese. All of this will be stuck into the freezer!

If you would like to try any of the recipes that we're using, you can click through on the following links provided:

Brown Bag Burritos

Breakfast Burritos

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Sloppy Joes

Ham Macaroni & Cheese

Chocolate Butterhorns

Been A While

Oh my! It have been forever since my last entry. So much has happened since then. Life has had so many dips and turns and lots of growing opportunities. I hope to post more often than I have in the past.

In Honor of the Holiday, Tell Us For What You Are Thankful...

I have so many things to be thankful for. From the breathe I take to the enjoyment of tasting dark chocolate. Life provides so many things that we should be thankful about. First and foremost, I'm most thankful for a life that my God has provided me with. A life full of learning experiences, adventures, love, passion..... And I'm also thankful for:

~To know the feeling of true love. I've been blessed to of experienced it once, but I get to experience the feeling over and over again each and every day thanks to my wonderful daughter.
~My daughter and her health and happiness.
~My health (even though it's got its bumps...lol).
~Our home and food on our table and in our bellies.
~For those who are serving and has served.
~The memories we keep alive within us.
~For family and their health and happiness.
~For friends and their health and happiness (both online and home life).
~Teachers who help us to educate our children and ourselves.
~For the freedom we have in this country.
~To see the beauty all around us - in people form and in other forms.
~The sense of smell to smell all the wonderful things around us.


My list could go on forever. My reasons to be grateful are termendous. But today, these are what I'm most grateful for. I hope everyone is enjoying their Thanksgiving!!!

Self-Love Affirmations

I've been looking for some self-love affirmations, and so far here is what I've found... I will be using these for myself and I hope that others will use them as well, plus I have other plans for them but can't tell at this time.

Enjoy!

1 - I believe in myself.
2 - I am taking many steps to make my life better.
3 - I appreciate myself. I five thanks for my wonderful life.
4 - I take time for myself today and every day.
5 - I am strong and capable.
6 - I wake up full of joy. I look forward to my day.
7 - I appreciate all that I am and all that I have.
8 - I speak positive, uplifting words.
9 - I am loved. I am lovable.
10 - I have the right to choose who I want to be around.
11 - I am open to receive my soul's joy. I am full of joy.
12 - I congratulate myself often.
13 - I easily sustain a positive lifestyle.
14 - I release any negative or fearful self-images.
15 - I let go of any burdens that are not mine to carry.
16 - I appreciate often how I feel good.
17 - I am filled with light.
18 - I look more beautiful everyday.
19 - I release guilt and shame. I am perfect as I am.
20 - I am generous with my love.
21 - I keep my promises to others and myself.
22 - I am a success. I congratulate myself often.
23 - I am comfortable with my feelings.
24 - I receive love easily. Others give it to me generously.
25 - I know what I love to do and I do it.
26 - I have a wonderful, nurturing environment.
27 - I value my time and energy.
28 - I give generously to myself.
29 - I love and honor everything I create.
30 - I accept and love myself for who I am right now.
31 - I honor myself in everything I do.
32 - I am a special, unique person.
33 - I put myself in situations where I feel honored, loved, and valued.
34 - I am lovable just as I am right now.
35 - I give myself all that I need.
36 - I honor my magical child. I have fun and play.
37 - I am aware of the images I send to other people. I send them positive, confident, and loving images of who I am.
38 - I choose to live in a balanced life.
39 - I feel vibrant and alive. I love how I feel.
40 - I am confident and serene.
41 - I take good care of myself.
42 - I have the right to change my mind.
43 - I smile often.
44 - I back up my feelings with my words and actions.
45 - I have frequent feelings of well-being.
46 - I honor my deepest truth with my words, actions, and behavior.
47 - I choose to be around other people who contribute to my feelings of aliveness.
48 - I pay attention to my body's wisdom and act on its message.
49 - I release all self-pity and blame. They flow out of my body and are replaced with love.
50 - I am true to myself in all that I do.
51 - I believe in myself. I know I have an unlimited capacity to create whatever I want.
52 - I recognize my own divinity.
53 - I acknowledge and appreciate my good qualities.
54 - I release all images others hold of me. I choose my own self-image.
55 - I release power struggles with others. I choose peace.
56 - I treat myself with respect. I am a worthy being.
57 - I accept myself for who I am.
58 - I trust my future self to take right action. I now live in the present moment.
59 - Everything I give to others is a gift to myself. As I give, I receive.
60 - I feel good, calm, and at peace with myself.
61 - I honor and value my creativity and ideas.
62 - I can have what I want.
63 - I am a valuable person. My path is important.
64 - I love myself unconditionally.
65 - I am open to allow and accept good things into my life.
66 - I give myself permission to be all I can be.
67 - I forgive myself, knowing that I did the best I knew how at the time.
68 - I am in charge of my destiny. I am the builder of my life.
69 - I am pleasing to myself.
70 - Every day, I experience more love in my life.

It's My List - That's Right - MY LIST!!!

After a lot of thought, I have decided to do a list of things that I want to do within my lifetime. You know, one of those "To-Do Lifetime Lists". I think by writing down things that I want to one day accomplish, I will have a better chance of it happening. Writing things down has always gave me that push to go for something. And I want to have a full-filling life of things that I want to try and actually doing them.

My "To-Do Lifetime List" will contain anything and everything I want to try, do, learn, ect. Things I want to accomplish before my lifetime is up. A planning list of sorts, I guess you could all it. It's of things that I want to do, not what others want me to do.... It's my list...

Edith's 'To-Do Lifetime List':

1 - Learn the Spanish and french language.
2 - Travel to Greenland and Iceland.
3 - Become a better student.
4 - Experience each cultures lifestyle.
5 - Learn to dance to upbeat music.
6 - Be well educated.
7 - Fly a plane.
8 - Attend a concert of Christina Aguilera.
9 - Meet Johnny Depp in person, carry on a conversation, have my photo taken with him.
10 - Live in Maine on the ocean front.
11 - Vacation in Devon, England.
12 - Learn about fashion.
13 - Be a good example to my daughter, Devon.
14 - Own my own custom built home.
15 - Be known in other countries in a good way.
16 - Graduate collage with a duel degree.
17 - Learn to sew.
18 - Learn to meditate.
19 - Be a better mother.
20 - Understand sign language.
21 - Be more assertive.
22 - Learn to cook cultural foods well.
23 - Vacation in Mexico.
24 - Take a cruise to the Caribbeans.
25 - Learn wood carving.
26 - Visit Disney Land/World with my daughter, Devon.
27 - Build a sand castle on the beaches of Florida with my daughter, Devon.
28 - Become an Interior Designer.
29 - Build a butterfly garden.
30 - Visit a live circus with my daughter, Devon.
31 - Learn to use coupons and deals offered to save the most money.
32 - Be financially stable.
33 - See my daughter, Devon, succeed in life.
34 - Find the right man for me.
35 - Learn to create signature tags for online use.
36 - Learn photography and be good at it.
37 - Be organized.
38 - Be physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy.
39 - Be more self-sufficient.
40 - Give my daughter, Devon, a positive outlook on life.
41 - Go on a hot air balloon ride.
42 - Learn to ice skate.
43 - Go skydiving.
44 - Learn to roller skate.
45 - Be seen in a romantic-comedy movie starring Hugh Grant.
46 - To snorkeling.

As time goes by, I will add to my list, cross things off, and post my experience of each accomplishment I make. This list is my list. No anyone else's. It's what I want to do, try, learn, ect. It's my list.

Life

Life growing up was so different. I was full of life, energy. I was outspoken and unique all at the same time after I got out of school. I had fun each and every day. I hung with friends. I went to church. I was out and about each day doing something that felt good to me.

All the 'life' in me seems to of faded away. Where has it gone? My hopes and dreams have mostly faded away. My child like outlook on life has vanished, and it's something that I'm in need of to keep my sanity. It's something that I want to hold onto. Something that I want back.

Depression took hold of my life early in my teenage years, but hasn't fully let go. Things I used to love doing, I no longer feel the joy from. One day soon, I hope things change. I want to feel that joy again from doing every day things. I want to feel the hop build for another chance; another day. I want laughter to full my heart. I want my heart full of endless sunshine and warm love and laughter.

Putting a smile on my face just isn't doing it. All it's doing is covering the pain and hurt I have inside. I want a smile that's true. True to me. True to my daughter. She deserves it. I deserve it.

In time, happiness WILL prevail!!!

Setting Goals

Setting Goals

Teach your child to turn dreams into reality with the practical magic of goal setting.

Goal setting is the process of making a dream come true step-by-step. The desire to meet a challenge and succeed has been a part of many cultures throughout history. The ancient Peruvians used to draw out their goals in symbols and paint them in primitive colors on the walls of caves. The Egyptians used to create elaborate rituals to move from the state of desire to actualization. They believed that writing out a dream in advance would assure a positive outcome.

Here are a few simple steps to follow to help your child set goals successfully.

Seven Principles for Setting Goals

1. Listen First: Encourage your child to become quiet and listen to the wisdom within before setting a goal. Many goals are born out of competition or excessive striving rather than from one's own integrity. A healthy and solid goal follows listening to one's inner wisdom, rather than the reverse. Go over these vital questions before setting goals:

* Is this goal something i really want?
* Does this goal serve me in my life right now?
* What will I need to bring this dream into reality?

Once these questions have been answered to your child's satisfaction, you can begin to create a game plan.

2. Create Smart Goals: Getting clear and specific about goals will help your child to create a personal map to success. The more realistic the goal, the more likely it is to take place, as long as the goal is something that your child truly wants rather than something force-fed by a well-intentioned adult. Consider these five key questions when helping your child to set "smart" goals:

Sensible - Does it make sense to do this?
Measurable - How will I measure when I've arrived?
Attainable - Can I actually attain the now?
Realistic - Is it possible and realistic at this time?
Time line - How much time will it take me?

3. See It and Believe It: Once the goal has been set, encourage your child to begin to see it as though it had already occurred. Drawing out goals in pictures, writing the down in vivid detail, or describing the desired end result on tape are great ways to keep the energy flowing in a positive direction. Once your child has set the goals, this will be the most important step to focus on each day.

4. Set Monthly Goals: Setting one or two monthly goals is a good way to practice the principles and see results quickly. A family of four selects one main goal per month each, along with a chart for marking down their progress on the refrigerator. Each person places a start on a winning day. They don't believe in failure, and they claim that they only have two kinds of days-- "I did it" days and "Give it all you've got tomorrow" days. At the end of the month, they have a Excellence Dinner to celebrate their successes. (Usually all four of them succeed, since they enjoy keeping one another motivated.)

5. Set Yearly Goals: Make yearly goal setting a family affair. Consider creating goals for the ear in the following categories:

* Business or school
* Family and friends
* Money
* Vacation
* Learning
* Spirituality
* Physical health

Break these down into bite-sized pieces by creating goals for the month, and read over the yearly goals at least once a week.

6. Reward Your Progress: Rewards can provide a fun lift along the way. Create small weekly or monthly rewards to stay motivated, since every step along the way is a step toward success and worthy of acknowledgment! Give one another hugs, pats on the back, cheers, and encouragement. If someone slips, support that person in getting back on track.

7. Be Wiling to Let It All Go: Sometimes something unexpected appears, and sings indicated that a change is needed. Being willing to drop a goal in favor of something more timely is a mark of courage and wisdom. Encourage your child to remain open to changes, and practice the art of detachment. There is a Zen saying that offers wise counsel during times of unexpected change:

"Face change by resisting the current and perish. Move with change, resilient to the flow, and flourish."



(100 Ways to Build Self-Esteem and Teach Values by Diana Loomans with Julia Loomans)

Teaching Children a Wellness Lifestyle (Health)

Good Nutrition

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Americans are changing their eating habits for the better and teaching their children to eat fewer non-nutritious foods and more nutritionally sound meals. Red meat is being replaced by poultry, fish, bean products, nuts, and grains, and fresh produce consumption is growing rapidly across the country. The USDA's latest guidelines recommend a low-fat diet, with grains as the foundation, or at least 40 percent of one's daily food consumption. The USDA has divided foods recommended for daily intake into six food groups.

The USDA's Six Main Food Groups to Eat Each Day

1. Grains: This category includes breads, cereal, rice, and pasta. Six to eleven servings are recommended per day, depending on age and body weight. One serving is approximately one slice of bread, or one-half cup of pasta, cereal, or rice. Grains have been the dietary foundation for people living in the temperate zones of our planet for thousands of years.

2. Vegetables: When it comes to vegetables, the yellow, orange, or dark leafy green ones are the richest in nutrients. Three to five servings per day are recommended. One serving is approximately one cup of raw vegetables, or one-half cup of cooked vegetables.

3. Fruit: The USDA recommends two to four servings of fruit per day. One serving is approximately one medium-size piece of fresh fruit, or three-fourths of a cup of berries, such as cherries, blueberries, strawberries, ans so forth.

4. Protein: This category includes meat (preferably lean meat with hewer than three grams of fat per ounce), poultry, fish, dry beans, tofu, eggs, nuts, and seeds (with a caution on the high fat content of nuts). Two to three servings are recommended per day. One serving is approximately three ounces of lean meat; three-fourths of a cup of tofu, beans, or low-fat cottage cheese; or one whole egg.

5. Dairy: This includes milk, yogurt, and cheese. The USDA recommends two to three servings per day. One serving is approximately eight ounces of low-fat milk or yogurt, or one ounce of cheese. For those who prefer an alternative to dairy, substitute soy or rice products.

6. Fats: Fat is found in tow forms: saturated and unsaturated. Saturated fat is found primarily in the meat group, while unsaturated fat is found in poultry, fish, and vegetable oils. To meet the need for essential fatty acid, choose from the unsaturated group. One to three servings per day are recommended. One serving is approximately one pat of butter, one tablespoon of oil or salad dressing, or two teaspoonfuls of mayonnaise.

Eight Ways to Help Your Child Develop Healthy Eating Habits

1. Plan your meals for the week with your child, adding flavorful dishes and variety, and make nutritional eating something to look forward to.

2. Serve a balance of foods from the six food groups each day.

3. Encourage children to drink at least eight glasses of water each day, including a small glass before each meal to help prevent overeating.

4. Teach children to eat snacks that are healthy and low in fat, such as fruits, vegetables, air-popped popcorn, low-fat yogurt, bread, or low-fat crackers.

5. Encourage children to eat slowly at each meal, chewing each bite of food thoroughly and putting the fork down between bites.

6. Teach children to eat until the appetite is reasonably satisfied, rather than overeating. Research has shown that those who eat moderate amounts of food, rather than overeating, live longer, healthier lives.

7. Make desserts low-fat and healthy, and save sugar and high-fat desserts (cake, ice cream, pie, pastries, or candy) for special occasions, such as birthdays and holidays.

8. Avoid additives, pesticides, and artificial flavor whenever possible, and eat food that is made with all-natural ingredients. Buy organic fruits and vegetables whenever available.

Five Benefits of Good Nutrition for Children

1. More energy.
2. More brain power for learning and thinking.
3. Better health.
4. Fewer illnesses.
5. Higher performance levels.

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ExerciseOne hundred years ago, scrubbing clothes in a washtub for twenty minutes burned about 140 calories and toned the upper torso and arms. Today, the same task involves putting the clothes into the washer and turning it on, which takes about tow minutes and burns about 14 calories. With all of our modern conveniences, it's no wonder that so many American families are overweight. The U.S. Government's Council on Health and Fitness cites exercise as one of the most important aspects of a child's health. Here are a few ideas about how you can promote a more active lifestyle for your family.

Exercising Together

1. Walk Together: There are over seventy million walkers in the United States. Exercise walking has now become the number one fitness activity in America, with enthusiasts spanning all age brackets. When you are going on short neighborhood errands with your child, consider the benefits of walking rather than driving. A mother of a first grader began to walk her daughter to school each morning instead of driving her. "It makes such a difference in how I feel for the rest of the day, and we have a good time, too!" Taking fitness walks with your child to nature reserves, state parks, or interesting parts of town offers a fun adventure together as well as a good workout.

2. Take Up a Sport with Your Child: More and more parents are combining play and fitness with their children, teaching them how to lead active lives while having fun together. Biking, hiking, tennis, roller blading, running, playing Frisbee, swimming, baseball, basketball, or even kite flying are just a few of the ways that adults and children can keep fit and have some fun together. A mother and her sever-year-old son took up roller blading as a sport, and they now spend some time each week practicing their new skill. "I'm the only second grader with a mom who roller blades," her son Brian said, beaming. A father and his tow teenage daughters recently signed up for an aerobics class together at a local gym. "We have a lot of fun going together, and we keep one another motivated," one of his daughters said.

3. Take a Hike: Hiking is one of the best ways to do aerobic activity together, since the scenery distracts you from the vigorous workout that you and your child will get in just one hour. A single father of five-year-old twin boys takes them on a hike every Saturday morning before lunch. "It's playtime, quality time, and a workout, all rolled into one for us," he said.

Five Benefits of Regular Exercise for Children

1. More energy.
2. More motivation.
3. Better health.
4. Trim appearance.
5. Greater self-esteem.

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Managing StressChildren cope with a certain amount of stress each day, depending on their age and upon circumstances at home and at school. Two questions children often ask when they experience stress are, "How will I get through this?" and "Will it ever end?" The following list of stresses children may experience can be used as a springboard for discussion and to help offer reassurance that, with support, they will get through their stress, and at some point the stress will end.

Twenty-One Ways Children Experience Stress

Ask your child to rank the following list of twenty-one stresses, with 1 being the most stressful, and 21 being the least stressful. Note that this checklist covers only some of the most common fears and stresses that children may experience and is intended for discussion only.

* Moving to a new location and going to a new school.
* Being teased or put down by friends and classmates.
* Losing a parent through divorce or death.
* Getting poor grades in school.
* Fighting or arguing with Mom or Dad.
* Getting lost.
* Going to the doctor or dentist.
* Hearing Mom and Dad quarreling.
* Being suspected of lying.
* Fear of death.
* Being spanked.
* Being left out.
* Getting sick.
* Losing a game.
* Having nightmares.
* Being embarrassed in front of other people.
* Being yelled at.
* Fighting with friends.
* Being harassed, attacked, or molested.
* Being held back a year in school.
* Have a new brother or sister.

Twelve Ways for Children to Reduce and Manage Stress

1. Talk to an adult you can trust about your feelings.

2. Work off tension with physical play or exercise.

3. Breathe slowly and relax your whole body from head to foot when feeling tense.

4. Write about your feelings in a diary or journal each day.

5. Talk to a good friend who listens when you're having a rough time.

6. Ask for some extra attention from your family when you need it.

7. Get plenty of sleep each night, drink lots of water, and eat healthy food.

8. Have a hobby, such as drawing or playing a musical instrument, for relaxation and relief.

9. Learn to laugh at yourself when you make mistakes.

10. Get your tension and anger out in ways that don't hurt anybody -- go for a run, yell into a pillow, punch a punching bag, jump on a trampoline, or throw pillows.

11. Agree with people who tease you with it makes sense to do so. If you drop a ball, for example, say, "You're right, I did drop the ball," in a carefree voice. When the teasing or put-downs are more cruel, learn to walk away, telling yourself, "I don't have to listen to this."

12. Dont' keep secrets inside that are hurting you. Reach out to someone who can help.

Help you child to lead a lifestyle of wellness that includes good nutrition, regular exercise, and skills in managing stress by encouraging the above ideas, and by learning a healthy and active wellness lifestyle of your own.

(took from: 100 Ways to Build Self-Esteem and Teach Values by Diana Loomans with Julia Loomans)

Ten Caring Ways to Connect with Children Each Day

Ten Caring Ways to Connect with Children Each Day

1. Compassion: Honor all of your feelings, and listen with empathy to each other.

2. Clear Communication: Express your emotions simply, and speak from the heart together.

3. Creativity: Try new things, be playful, and invite the unexpected.

4. Consistency: Do what you say, and say what you mean each day.

5. Challenge: Approach problems with positive expectancy, and learn from the challenge.

6. Cheerfulness: Embrace the day with lightheartedness, and learn to enjoy life.

7. Confidence: Trust and believe in your own talents and in the abilities of others.

8. Calmness: Breathe and live from a calm center within yourself each day.

9. Clear Agreements: Create clear agreements and rules that everyone understands and feels good about.

10. Commitment: Be committed to being true to yourself and honest with others each day.

Journal Topic - Complete the following: "I love that my family is..."

There is so much that I love about my family, and there are things that I do not. But the things that I love out weighs the things that I do not. For the following sentence, I am basing it on the family that I made... So, it's just me and my daughter (not the family that I came from).....

Complete the following sentence:

"I love that my family is..."
~ happy
~ together
~ easy to get along with
~ small
~ bonded
~ caring
~ understanding
~ loving
~ honest
~ determined
~ emotional
~ trusting
~ hopeful
~ a dream come true
~ a gift
~ centered
~ spiritual
~ open-minded
~ passionate
~ full of energy
~ unique
~ full of life
~ full of laughter
~ a source of love
~ a source of pleasantness
~ eager
~ strong

The list goes on and on.... But I don't want to bore you with everything...

Affirmations

I create an atmosphere of love, peace and healing within my daily experiences of life.

I release with love, all criticism of those who have hurt me, including myself.

I am safe, my inner parent listens to my inner child each day and we have fun together.

My thoughts are like seeds of love.

I listen gently to my body and I choose to feed it nutritional food and positive affirmations.

I meditate, pray and visualise my child being reparented with love and gentleness.

I am at one with the flow of life.

I can just be me and learn to trust my higher self.

As I give thanks from deep inside me, including my inner child, I become more open and receptive to all good.

I am willing to be patient with myself, when I get off centre I allow my inner parent to comfort me in my tears.

I know what I feel and have the courage to give voice to my feelings. This helps me sense my power.

I send love before me to every situation I am going to meet today and give thanks for all good.

Each time I choose a thought of love, my inner child leaps within with delight to say yes to life.

A Journal Topic...

On a forum that I am on, the daily journal topic was "Complete this sentence - I hope my child(ren)..." I thought it was a great topic and wanted to share what I had posted there.

I hope my child....
~ I hope my child grows up to be a strong, happy women that is loving and accepting of others and of herself.
~ I hope my child continues her educations well past high school.
~ I hope my child always tells me "I love you, mommy" every single day.
~ I hope my child continues to grasp the meaning of love and shares it with everyone she comes into contact with.
~ I hope my child grows to have a balanced life of love, career, and children of her own.
~ I hope my child will strive to do her best no matter what.
~ I hope my child will never be afraid to use her imagination.
~ I hope my child will be a example to others in her life.
~ I hope my child's dreams will all come true!
~ I hope my child will always be involved with her friends and family as she grows older.
~ I hope my child will be able to travel all over the world.
~ I hope my child will have a happy marriage when she is old enough to get married.
~ I hope my child will be a success in her chosen career.
~ I hope my child will never forget where she comes from.
~ I hope my child will excel in any given situation that comes into her life.
~ I hope my child will always be as happy as she is now!!!

There is so much more that I hope my child will be or will do. I want all the best for her and I hope she gets everything she wants out of life!!!

A Love Letter To Myself!!!

My Dearest Self,

Growth is a wonderful thing. Growing with and around others and yourself is a wonderful thing. The growth that you have done over the years has provided a powerful foundation for your future. You have grown from the emotional, physical, and spiritual impact that has been put into your life. I applaud you for your determination to overcome, to move forwards when you felt you could not.

The love in your heart is unique and tremendous. I am proud of the love you have, that you share, that you give. I am proud that the pain and hurt from the past has not taken that from you. You are a strong soul. You are a strong source of love for those around you.

Strength... Oh, what I can say... The strength you carry is a special thing. You have been blessed with the strength to carry on no matter what happens, no matter what has been put on your path of life. Your strength has formed a glow around you that others can see. A strong soul and a strong heart to push forward in life.

I love you! I love your growth, love, and strength. I love your soul. I love you!!!

Love,
Yourself