Up, Up and Away!

I once had the pleasure of winning a hot air balloon ride. Yes, you heard that right, I won a hot air balloon ride! Let me tell you, it was absolutely AMAZING! I entered the contest without telling anyone and with my little girl in mind. She is a little dreamer and had been telling my husband and me that she wanted to ride in a hot air balloon since she was able to talk. We started taking her to our local balloon glow and launch before she was two, and ever since, she had dreamed of riding in a hot air balloon and touching the clouds.  

Why Aren’t You In School?

Why aren’t you in school? My daughter gets this question a lot as we are out and about during the day. She always proudly answers with, “I’m homeschooled”. There is usually an awkward silence followed by an even more awkward question. Many times it has to do with socialization. I embrace these moments.

Painting Rocks Bringing People Together

Painting and then hiding rocks has become this summer’s craze. Rock painting is taking place in cities everywhere and there are often social media pages devoted to this fun trend. The local Facebook page for my community, 719 Rocks!, has gained over 16,000 followers in a few months’ time. I must say, I think this is such a positive use of technology.

You Can Do Anything! 6 Ways to Encourage Independence in Your Children

Do you have a little one that is clingy? Or maybe one that likes to run free? Both of my children were a bit more of the clingy type. This worked out great for safety but not so much for letting me get things done. Or even going to the bathroom in peace. I’m so thankful they love and trust me, but I also want them to be independent. It is so important for building confidence and learning life skills. Here are some of the things we do to encourage independence.

Snack Attack! Fight Back with Healthy Choices

Do you have snackers at your house? My daughter is in a phase where should would rather snack all day then eat. I’m not really opposed to this, as several small meals throughout the day can be better than three heavy meals. The problem is finding healthy options we can agree on. Since she has a slight build, I like to make sure has a little protein with each snack. I have also found that I snack while preparing her snack. Oops! Healthier choices help me too.

Find Adventure in Your Own Big Backyard 14 Fun Things You Can Do in Any City

I don’t have anything to do. Raise your hand if you have heard this come out of your little cutie’s mouth a time or two… or three thousand. Spring and summer break can seem daunting if don’t already have set plans. I’m all for letting kids experience a little boredom, but it can be exhausting for everyone. The problem is finding something to do can be difficult. Here is a list of things that you can do just about anywhere and provide fun for just about everyone.