Domestic violence

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness month. It's a very essential topic because domestic violence happens all of the time but kept secret. As a society, we need to give people tools to handle the situation instead of being in silence. 

The first sign of domestic violence, the victim rarely leaves even though they should. They accept the apologies and believe it won't happen again. But, unfortunately, it usually always does and will continue happening. 

After the first occurrence ,violence gets worse and easier for the person to do. Excuses come, apologies are rationalized, and hearts break. It's just a whirlwind cycle.  The abuser won't stop unless they stop blaming others and only blame themselves. 

Domestic violence can be stopped. If you are the victim, decide you are better than the abuse. If you are the abuser, just stop. Leave and stop abusing. 

Living alone is far better than living in pain and sadness. You have the power within to say no to the violence. 

Morning routine

Remember the following as you send your child to school:

- organization at night makes smoother mornings

- love is so important before a long day away - remember to praise your child

- leave ten minutes of spare time in case of emergencies

- breakfast is essential to great days

- remember sweaters because even warm fall days have chilly mornings

- tell your child you love them and have a terrific day

Goodnight Moon for free - Iphone, Ipad

A child loves Goodnight Moon! Quickly go to the app store and download it for free for your iphone and ipad.

Time is a friend and enemy

Motherhood is a lifetime job. It has some of the best things in life and some of the worst. As my kids grow, I realize time is your friend and enemy. 

Bed time can be a glorious event. It gives you freedom and hopefully rest. The time between tantrums or boo boos are great. Also, the times when all is in harmony as it should. 

However, time doesn't stop. Our children keep growing and one day be independent. Please use your time wisely and know it is way too fast and not coming back.

Around the house toys

Toys aren't just the ones people buy at stores. Although great other objects around the house can be used as well. Babies like pulling tissues out of a tissue box. They like peek a boo or hearing different sounds. Put on the faucet and let them hear plus feel the water. 

My son loves ceiling fans. He stares up at it. Some people put pictures on their fans.

Older kids like boxes to use in imagination play. They can use pots, pans and other cooking things to play with.

Bedroom organization

A child's bedroom is their domain. They can't just clean it on their own without proper supervision. They need support and guidance. First purge out old toys and trash.  Then go get storage that will work in their room and they can handle. 

Have fun and do it together. Try to keep the atmosphere light and happy. Help them be proud of the job and encourage them to keep it clean. Shelves are great for valuable items. Donate old toys and explain why donations are good. When they realize they are helping others, they might be more encouraged to donate.

Make the most of space but leave free space to play. They will need room to enjoy and have fun to play. Give them an area to do that

Mystery bag

My husband gave me this idea. I buy little toys, stickers and trinkets for the children and put in a special bag. When I catch them being good, I'll say you earned a trip to the mystery bag. Laura loved looking through everything and picking out a special treat or toy. She cherished it and was proud of herself.