Home with the Kids Newsletter

Competitive Siblings

2009-05-05T13:51:00.001-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Oh, life with sick kids is fun.

Well, not so much fun as tiring. Let's be honest here.

Fortunately it's not anything too bad. But listening to my son cough so much at night is not quite as tiring for me as it is for him, I'm guessing. Thought he was done with it over the weekend... nope!

But I'm not just going to complain today about being tired. I also have a special deal I've been allowed to give my readers for a limited time. The ebook is called How ANY Woman can Learn to Make Money on the Internet, and it's by Kathy Wilson, a business coach and home decorating expert for LifetimeTv.com.

The ebook gives step by step instructions on how to start an online home business. The main focus is on building informational sites, something I know quite well, but I still found her book informative.

She also covers how to keep motivated, budget issues and more. These are vital topics when you start any home business!

She's offering my readers a 25% discount on the ebook, bringing the price down to $24.95. This price is good until 5/15/2009 only, so take advantage soon if you're interested. Visit http://www.women-on-the-net.com/home-with-the-kids.html to learn more.

Feature Article
Competitive Siblings? Here's How To Cope

It's a song and dance that's been around for as long as there have been children: siblings who are so competitive with one another that they absolutely cannot get along. A fierce competitive streak within your children isn't just unhealthy for them; it can upset your overall family harmony as well.

Come and read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2009/050509.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Recipe Blogging

2009-04-21T12:02:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

I know the weather is still spring-like in some areas, but around here it feels more like summer. We broke 100 degrees F yesterday and hoping to not do the same today. But we are over 90.

Yes, summer's coming.

You know what that means. Time to start thinking about when the kids are out of school and boredom strikes. I've started thinking on that already. Things will be complicated somewhat with a baby, but not too badly. Just a little extra planning needed.

Feature Article
An Easy Way to Get Blogging & Earning with Your Recipes

Having a Web log, or ”Blogging” as it’s more commonly called, is a great way to share information with others in a public forum, by posting comments on a (often free) website.

Come and read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2009/042109.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

5 Steps to Home Organization

2009-04-14T09:56:00.001-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

I think we're mostly recovered now from a rather busy Easter weekend. The good and bad part about having so much family in town is... there's so much family in town. It makes for really hectic yet really fun family holiday celebrations. But we spread it out so that the whole thing wasn't too overwhelming.

On the other hand, it makes getting work on my business done a bit tricky. I'm hoping to get back into the routine now that Easter is past and Selene is sleeping a bit better at night. She needs more and more attention during the day now, as she is awake more often, but that's the fun part, right?

Feature Article
Home Organization in 5 Easy Steps

While home organization comes naturally to many people, it can be a challenge for those who do not partake in such projects on a regular basis. For many of us, keeping our houses in order is something we have to constantly work at. Getting organized is often the easy part, it's staying organized that is the problem. Over time, houses get cluttered, belongings pile up and the organization process must be started all over again. How can you get organized, and, most importantly, stay organized? Here are five steps to follow to get your home organized, and keep it that way.

Come and read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2009/041409.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Avoiding Scams

2009-03-24T11:30:00.001-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Never say kids don't make life interesting. I had to call Poison Control the other day to find out if I needed to be concerned about a plant he ate. My online research wasn't quite sufficient to answer that for certain. He's fine.

Feature Article
How Do You Find Scam Free Work at Home?

Just about the very first thing you hear from anyone when you say you want to work at home is that you're going to get scammed. There's good reason for that. If you aren't careful, there are good odds that you will be scammed. Even if you are careful, you might fall for a scam.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2009/032409.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Helping Kids Remember

2009-03-10T13:20:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Bit by bit I'm getting back to a better work schedule around here. It's tough at times, but doable.

Little Selene is growing fast. She has quite the appetite. She's also starting to lose her baby hair. First time I've had that happen this early. My oldest never did lose her baby hair, and my son only lost a little when he had his helmet. Selene has lost a lot, so I teased my husband that I could tell that she's his daughter, as they share a balding pattern. Not really, as she has lost more, but fun to joke about.

Feature Article
Helping Your Child Remember Better

There is no mystery involved in training your child to have a good memory and for his brain to remember more efficiently. There are two very effective ways of training your child's memory and to improve his or her memory.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2009/031009.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

The Importance of Art Lessons

2009-02-24T11:31:00.001-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Minimal sleep at night, lots of feedings... yep, it's a growth spurt. Little Selene is growing fast. Bit by bit I'm remembering this whole "Mom to a newborn" routine.

Feature Article
Why Children's Art Lessons Are An Indispensable Part Of Their Development

Psychologists, anthropologists, and social scientists have long suspected that the development of a child's creativity carries ancillary effects. While a painting or drawing that an adolescent creates may never make it further than the door of the family refrigerator, its value is often underestimated. Indeed, the process by which it was created plays a key role in many other areas in a young person's life. Children's art lessons can guide kids in the process they use to express their creativity.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2009/022409.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Because I Said So?

2009-01-27T13:27:00.000-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Still here, still waiting. Baby Selene is taking her sweet time so far, which a lot of family members seem to appreciate.

I'm just looking forward to getting somewhat more restful sleep. Babies don't let you sleep that well, but it's kicks or contractions most nights now, which means really restless sleep. All you moms know what I mean. I'd like to wake up less than once an hour.

But at least things are pretty much ready at last. Not perfectly, but we won't go completely crazy if she comes now. I keep saying a Tuesday or Wednesday would be just about perfect with my husband's work schedule, as we'd rather he not take too much time off work just now. It's their busy season and he gets commission.

Feature Article
Telling Your Child "Because I Said So" Is Never the Answer!

Children are naturally inquisitive and want to know the ins and outs of everything they see and here. A child asking, "why why why" over and over and over again can be a daunting issue, no wonder they're known as generation why. But, however great the tendency to answer with "Because", doing do should be avoided whenever possible.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2009/012709.php

See you next week... maybe!

Stephanie

Getting Kids to Do Chores

2009-01-20T11:02:00.000-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Happy inauguration day, and I'm finally back to doing the newsletter. Just blame the delay on pregnancy brain.

Yes, that's still going on. 38 weeks and counting, so don't be surprised by more missed weeks. We'll see how long this little rascal holds out before being born.

Feature Article
Chores for Kids - Simple Ways to Get Kids to do Chores

Teaching kids to do household chores is an important part of helping them learn to be independent. Kids who are actively involved in helping run a household learn self-confidence and self-respect. Children come to realize that certain jobs depend on them. They gain a sense of responsibility, and the satisfaction of making a significant contribution to the family.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2009/012009.php

See you next week (?)

Stephanie

Motivating Kids

2008-12-16T11:23:00.001-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Christmas is almost here. Time to finish up, or maybe even just start your holiday shopping. It can be a crazy time.

This should be the last newsletter of this year. I very much doubt I'll have the time for it next week or the one after. Have to have some holiday family time, after all!

Feature Article
Enhancing Motivation and Engagement

An important question asked by parents worldwide is "How can I motivate my child to do better at school?" Motivation and engagement is of the most important of qualities a student can possess. It is both an end in itself and a means to an end; Students who possess these traits have been shown to achieve higher educational outcomes, develop a deeper understanding of key concepts, and are able to make greater connections to real-world situations. It is the first in a series of qualities, characteristics, values and strategies that will assist students in realizing their potential.

Come and read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/121608.php

See you in the New Year!

Stephanie

Teach Your Kids to Save Money

2008-12-09T11:15:00.000-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

I still have a special offer running with Dan Reinhold's new product. Now is a great time to start learning skills so that you can build your business even better next year!

Promotion has ended.

Feature Article
Needed! Parents to Teach Children How to Save Money

Does money burn a hole in your pocket? If you don't want money to burn a hole in your child's pocket, there are things you can do. Inside you'll find parenting tips teaching your child to become a saver and build character too.

Come and read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/120908.php

Being a Savvy Consumer

2008-12-02T11:42:00.001-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Thanksgiving is past... now on to the crazed part of the season for many people. Here comes Christmas.

Feature Article
Become a Savvy Consumer: Save Time, Energy & Money!

Whether economic times are abundant or tight, it's always an advantage to be a savvy consumer. And whether or not your budget is abundant or tight, it's always beneficial to know how to shop effectively.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/120208.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Multi Tasking

2008-11-25T12:54:00.001-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

It's almost Thanksgiving! Crazy week for me; the kids get the whole thing off. I think I agree with an old friend who commented that we got gypped as kids, getting only Thursday and Friday off.

We're trying to get some things done. I hope to have the kids go through their old toys today and get rid of the many that never get played with. It's a nice time of year to send the excess off to charity. It helps that the kids know Christmas is on the way and that they hope for more toys, although I'm hoping to get the overall number down. Been too long since we did a cleanout.

Feature Article
The 5- Minute Solution (for multi-taskin' Mamas)

What do we want our children to take away from their time with us? We do so much to make their lives rich. We love, support and care for them. We keep them organized, help them with challenges and introduce them to our world. But, what if our greatest impact is not what we do, but who we are being when we are with them? What if all of the doing that is so well intentioned, is but a drop in the bucket compared to what they observe in us?

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/112508.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

2008-11-18T10:58:00.000-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Someday I'll sleep well again... someday.

Not all kids adapt well to time changes, and that's what I'm dealing with right now. Mine are still mostly getting up an hour too early. Combine that with a rather active baby kicking around in the wee hours of the night and morning, and things get pretty exhausting.

On the other hand, this morning wasn't too bad. Only one kid up early, and no earthquake to wake me. Had a little quake yesterday morning, just enough to wake us. Suffice to say I rather resembled a zombie mentally yesterday.

Feature Article
Kids' Science: Fun with Magnets

If you're short on kids' science activities, pick up some small magnets from your local hardware store. They're inexpensive and lots of fun. In addition to keeping your child's full attention, magnets achieve the following:

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/111808.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Simple Entrees

2008-11-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Happy Veteran's Day to our veterans and those serving now.

I have both the kids home today. I was a little surprised that we didn't have the usual "Veteran's Day, Observed" on Monday rather than today, but the kids sure don't mind. My son just got back from a trip with his grandmother, so I think they're glad to have the extra time together. Even if they have spent much of the morning arguing.

Feature Article
Simple, Money-Saving Entrees - Ready in a Hurry!

Rising food prices have sent many of us back to the kitchen to save money. And while there are many benefits of a home cooked meal, preparing dinner from scratch still takes valuable time from our busy schedules. But it can be easy to prepare simple entrees at home, saving you both time and money. So move beyond burgers and fries and fix one of these dishes tonight! All are easy to prepare and ready in about 30 minutes.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/111108.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Reasons Why Budgets Fail

2008-11-04T10:37:00.001-08:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

It's election day here in the United States. I've made it out to vote already, and hope those who can do likewise.

Feature Article
3 Reasons Why Your Budget Can Fail - And How To Ensure It Doesn't

Creating a budget is a fantastic first step in getting your financial situation under control, especially if you are currently having money troubles. Unfortunately just creating a budget is no guarantee that your money situation will turn around - you need to be able to stick to it. There are many reasons why a budget may ultimately fail. Here are the three most common problems, and what you can do to overcome those problems.

Come and read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/110408.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Kids and the Election Process

2008-10-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Halloween is almost here. Election day is almost here. Just call it a busy time of year.

I'm doing some last minute work on my daughter's costume. She was a butterfly for Halloween when she was 2, and wants to reuse the wings this year. I let her pick some new paints to add to the design. One of the big additions is lots of glow in the dark paint. She loves that part, and I'm really impressed with how well the paint glows. It makes a dark costume somewhat more visible on some of the streets in our area, which aren't always well lit.

Go vote is all I will say about the election. Hopefully you've figured out how you want to vote already.

Feature Article
How to Engage Your Children in the Election Process

The 2008 Presidential election is regarded by many as one of the most significant events in American history. Just because your children are too young to vote does not mean they cannot participate in this important occasion. How do we teach our children that voting is one of the most important rights that we have as Americans?

Come and read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/102808.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Taking Time

2008-10-21T12:37:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

It's almost Halloween. Despite knowing for the past couple weeks what my kids are going to be, I still haven't finished my daughter's costume.

All I have to do, fortunately, is get some paints of her choice and work on her butterfly wings from a costume we did a few years ago.

The schools here are pretty clever about handling Halloween excitement, at least at the elementary school level. They're doing parent-teacher conferences on October 30-31. Kids still get to dress up in the morning on October 29, but they won't have to be sitting through class on the days they will probably be most excited.

Feature Article
Taking Time for Precious Moments

I am a stay-at-home mother of one child, and sometimes I get the comment, "Don't you get bored?" I used to work and bring my baby to work with me; I did this until he was nine months old. I consider myself blessed that I am able to be home full-time, and I can assure all those who think I don't have enough to do that there is plenty.

Come and read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/102108.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

De-stressing Moms

2008-10-14T11:32:00.001-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Nothing like a quick reminder that fire season has started again. Nothing dangerously close to me, but the winds are high and my husband thinks some people are worried already. He says there were decidedly fewer kids at school this morning when he dropped our daughter off. Then again, it could just be that it's about the time of year for kids to be getting sick again. I do remember that with last year's fires the evacuation stopped a bug that had been going around the school pretty nicely.

So long as it doesn't interfere with Halloween, as it almost did last year.

Feature Article
The New Mom's 5-Minute Daily Guide to De-Stressing

A barrage of activities at home can make you feel a little wound up. Add to that the occasional discussions and issues between you and your partner, and you may find yourself in need of an outlet.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/101408.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Saving on Your Power Bill

2008-09-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

I have to say this whole economy is certainly trying to make life... interesting. My husband's job just had some layoffs; his job survived, thank goodness. But it's quite a crunch for many people, and all we can do is hope it gets better soon.

Feature Article
Ways to Lower Your Power Bill and Save Money

Depending on where you live in the US, your power bill can be a real burden on your monthly expenses. During the summer in Las Vegas last year, my bill was hitting around $250 a month. That's before I learned the key tips to lowering my power bill to save money and go greener.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/093008.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Chore Contracts

2008-09-23T11:12:00.001-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Phew! Back from BlogWorld Expo 2008! I had quite the hectic weekend, and it's a good thing I'm not any further along in my pregnancy than I am. It was plenty exhausting as it was.

Of course, it's good to be home again. The experience was a lot of fun and I learned a lot. The kids were glad to be home, although they had a ton of fun spending the weekend with my mother.

Now I just have to get back into my routine at home again.

Feature Article
Children, Household Chores and the Value of Contracts

An important part of implementing a household chore system is creating a formal agreement, commonly called a contract, for every member of the household. A contract defines the parent's expectations and provides direction and parameters for the children. A contract can be a general form explaining household rules or a complex detailing of chore responsibilities for a specific person. For households with teenagers or even adults who shirk their responsibilities around the home, contracts can help pave the way to a new, orderly household in where everyone formally agrees to carry their own weight.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/092308.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Packed Lunches

2008-09-09T04:02:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Wow. About one more week before I have the chance to find out what the baby is. My mom's cheering for a boy, as is my son, my daughter wants a sister. And then there's my younger sister who tells me I need to have a blonde this time, since the other two are brunette. That would certainly stand out.

I just figure in any case this baby is a tie breaker. I have a son and a daughter, and my husband's sister has a son and a daughter. So one way or the other either the guys or the girls on that side of the family will be ahead in numbers.

As if it matters.

Kick, kick, kick. This baby's keeping busy.

Feature Article
Healthy Packed Lunch Ideas for Children

Are you concerned about you children's health? Aware that certain fats are bad but not sure how to avoid them? Well, read on because you will find lots of tips and ideas for healthy packed lunches.

Come over to http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/090908.php to read the rest.

See you next week!

Stephanie

Fast Food Nutrition?

2008-09-02T05:30:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Back to school is certainly a time for change for children. I can see that my kids are definitely working through some adjustments right now. Some of that's waiting for baby to come, of course, but the stress level has certainly gone up with the return to school.

We're working through it all, and making sure the kids know to talk to us when something's bothering them. They don't do that much yet, but the sooner we can get the idea across, the better.

Feature Article
Behind fast food restaurants 'Nutrition' claims

I must admit, a drive through restaurant with toilet facilities and a kids play area is really convenient. With the kids nagging to head to McDonalds for the latest toy available in a Mc Happy Meal, a Mc Café, Lighter meals and the Heart Foundation tick, heading to McDonald's does seem like a safe option, right? Really, there is something very wrong behind their representative Ronald McDonald and personally, I wouldn't trust my health or nutrition to a clown! So does McDonald's 'nutritious' food really measure up to their claims?

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/090208.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Back to School Transition

2008-08-26T04:31:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Let's see... daughter's school has started... check. Son back in speech therapy... check. Preschool program for son... umm, still working on that one. I may yet get it taken care of, though. He really needs the social time, much more so than the educational time.

It's a bit of an adjustment having school back in session. I was so much hoping to have my son in preschool this year through the school district, but that just wasn't to be. So now I'm checking out an alternative a friend suggested to see if I like the idea. It will be more tiring for me on the days I have to participate, but having the quiet time would be quite the treat. And of course the time with other kids around his age would do my son a world of good, I think.

Feature Article
Three Tips to Transition Your Family Back to School

You know what time of year this is, back to school! Even if you don't have children or your children are grown, there is a shift that occurs as fall arrives. There is a bit of anticipation, a sense of something about to occur, a quickening of pace. For many of us as fall arrives our schedule fills and we are on the go with little time to slow down and reflect.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/082608.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Online Social Life

2008-08-12T04:11:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Yesteday was the big day. My husband started his new job. Pretty exciting/relieving stuff there.

I don't think the kids have recognized the difference yet. At the very least they were behaving pretty normally yesterday. Have to see what the next few days bring.

Feature Article
How Much of an Online Social Life is Healthy for at Home Parents?

One of the great things about the Internet is how it has opened people up to friendships around the world. While some people view online relationships as shallow things, they can be quite deep and meaningful too.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/081208.php

See you next week!

Stephanie

Frugal Shopping

2008-08-05T04:04:00.000-07:00

The Editor's Desk - From Beneath the Clutter

Ah, one more week until my husband starts his job. Two more until school starts.

Should be interesting to see how the kids cope. My son was so mad when Daddy started staying at home all the time, but he loved it when his sister was suddenly more available to play when school got out. Now both of those will be changing in short order.

Feature Article
Frugal Shopping - How to Keep the Money You Earn

Frugal shopping can make your dollar go further and will help you to live within your means. When you implement these smart shopping tips, don't think of them as deprivation; instead think of your frugal shopping strategies as a challenge to fight the marketing strategies that separate you from your money.

Come read the rest at http://www.homewiththekids.com/newsletter/2008/080508.php

See you next week!

Stephanie