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Are You A Snowplow Parent?

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There are many different kinds of parenting styles to choose from. Some of them are very beneficial both to the children and the parents. Others are disadvantageous to not only the children, but also to their parents. Among the worst is the “snowplow parent”. Actual snow is not required for a parent to choose this parenting style. Emma Waverman, writing for Today’s Parent defined a snowplow parent as “a person who constantly forces obstacles out of their kids’ paths. They have their eye on the future success of their child, and anyone or anything that stands in their way has … Continue reading →

Make Your Own Snow Cone Syrup

Cut down on the cost and eliminate the high fructose corn syrup when you make your own snow cone syrup. It is easy and inexpensive. What are summer days without a snow cone? This classic summer treat can bring smiles to practically any child. I remember my childhood summers. One of my favorite “toys” was my snoopy snow cone machine. It took a lot of work to get enough shaved ice to make one small snow cone, but it was worth every moment. Because my parents weren’t interested in buying any of the snow cone syrups that were available, I … Continue reading →

Affordable Snow Day Fun

  With yet another wicked winter storm readying to slam into several states from New Mexico to Illinois, millions of parents are gearing up for a snow day.  For kids, having a day off from school is a dream come true, but for many moms and dads the unexpected break is a true nightmare, especially if said children turn restless and cabin fever strikes. To preserve your sanity as Old Man Winter blasts into your neck of the woods, consider the following fun and affordable projects and games designed to keep your kids busy and out of trouble: DIY Decorative … Continue reading →

Snow Day Part I

The day was planned.  My husband and two of his colleagues were carpooling seventy minutes to one of their company’s retreat houses (a program to help those with substance abuse issues overcome their addictions) to work on training and curriculum development. After taking on a new position in the same company where he has worked for over a year, he spends less time out at the houses and more time working on bettering the program. I also had a busy day planned.  Breakfast at seven in the morning (obviously) so that we can eat with my husband before he goes … Continue reading →

Making Snow Cones from a Blizzard

That’s a desperate mom’s twist on the proverbial phrase about lemons and lemonade. When you live in the frozen tundra that is northern Wisconsin you have to flex your creative muscle on a regular basis in order to keep from going stir crazy during the winter months.  This is especially true if your home is filled with antsy children.  Even a singleton can push you to the limits if the weather outside is so frightful that winter play is limited to the living room, kitchen or basement. If you are enjoying a reprieve from Mother Nature right now, remember that … Continue reading →

Bright Lights, Empty Wallet

Have you seen the oh-so cute, fluffy-looking light-up pink Christmas flamingo that Target is selling in its seasonal section? You know; the one that all the kids are drooling over, including my 8-year-old. You know; the one that is not on sale. Yeah.  That one. What parent can rationalize paying nearly 50 bucks for a knee-high bird wearing a Santa hat?  Sure, he lights up, but so does the inflatable snowman at the Dollar Store… if I place a string of LEDs on him. Newsflash:  I did not win the Powerball jackpot. In other news:  My kid doesn’t care. She … Continue reading →

Embrace Your Mistakes + Snow Globe Sugar Cookie Recipe

Many parents feel uncomfortable appearing less than perfect around their children.  Ironically, childhood experts maintain that moms and dads, who unabashedly show their children that making mistakes is part of life, give their kids a priceless gift and a leg up in the real world. Well, Hallelujah!  I’ve finally done something right in the eyes of so-called parenting experts. My kid sees me mess up all the time.  Okay, maybe not all.the.time.  Still, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes… and then some.  However, in making my litany of blunders, I’ve learned another important lesson.  By embracing your imperfections you … Continue reading →

Baby’s First Snow Adventure

This past weekend, we got a monster snow storm. My kids were all excited to go play in the snow. It just kept falling, and there was plenty of snow right in our backyard to build a snowman and even a little sledding hill. While I love looking at the snow from my warm house, sometimes, the thought of getting the kids all bundled up seems exhausting, and I leave it up to my husband. But, this time, I was anxious to get the baby out in the snow and let him experience his first snowfall since last year he … Continue reading →

Don’t Let Winter Become an Excuse to Not Exercise

Lately I have been thinking a lot about spring. I am thinking about sunshine and warmth. I am thinking about those walks I love to take. For some reason the thought of warmer days seems more motivating when it comes to exercise. The long, cold, dreary days of winter can cause the coach potato in all of us to seep in. I seem to have more time for movies and TV shows during the winter. Actually, it’s because I’m not a winter person. I don’t enjoy the cold and I certainly don’t enjoy the snow, despite living in a state … Continue reading →

Don’t Let Business Get in the Way of Fitness

Home – based professionals often have a hard time fitting in fitness, just like people who work outside of the home. However, making time to squeeze a workout into most of your days is a great idea because it boosts your energy and keeps you healthy. It could also help to keep your health care costs down, which can be very important if you have no health insurance or can only afford a plan that covers the most basic care. There are a few ways that a home – based professional can include fitness in his or her day. If … Continue reading →