How To Keep Up With Your Family's Laundry
Laundry...
Laundry has been my least favorite chore around the house since I was in high school. I would do anything to get out of doing it, but somehow my mom always made it MY chore.Now, I have three kids, one husband, and two dogs... this means I have A LOT of laundry to do each week. I always had great intentions to get it done right as I took it out of the dryer, but life would happen and it would end up tossed onto a couch or into my black hole of a closet.My whole family knew about the black hole in the closet. If they needed more clean clothes, they would begrudgingly walk to the closet. They knew they had a HUGE pile of clothes to look through and tried to do it quickly.I'd love to say it only lasted for a week, but... it was much longer than that. It was the one chore I just couldn't keep up with!Some weeks were better than others, but overall it was just overwhelming.Then this summer happened. I decided enough was enough and I wanted to get a handle on laundry. If I can become an EX LAUNDRY PROCRASTINATOR then you can too!
If you're trying to keep up with laundry for your whole family, follow these simple steps.
Purge!
Get rid of it all! Okay, maybe not all the clothes, but get skim down for everyone. Do your kids really need 20 shirts? Nope. Go through and get rid of clothes with stains, clothes they don't wear, and then throw a few more in the bag.
Put clothes in storage.
Separate all your clothes into seasons. Only keep out the clothes your kids are actually wearing all the time. Then you can put the rest in a plastic tub and store it for later.
Create a laundry system.
Find a system to make it all easier. I ordered a laundry hamper that separates all my laundry. I separate whites, my and my husband's darks, towels, my kid's darks, and bedding. This helps me to keep up with it all and actually wash everything.
Teach the kids to fold their own laundry.
As clothes come out of the dryer I like to separate them for my kids. I put each kid's pile on their bed. Then they get to take care of it. Depending on their age they can fold, hang up, or simply put in their drawer. It gives them a sense of independence and also helps momma out!
Do laundry the same day every week.
Create a schedule for yourself. Whether it be towels on Monday, kid's clothes on Wednesday... Find a routine that works out well for you and be consistent. Put it on your fridge or in your phone. Just do it.
Don't wait.
We've all forgotten about the clothes in the washer and ended up running it again... or maybe for a third time.. Stop the cycle!*Ha. Did you catch the pun? Mom joke? It's okay still proud!*The second the washer is done, put it in the dryer, then fold it right away!
Bedtime Routine For Multiple Kids
Disclosure: This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #RAMomSolutions #CollectiveBias
I absolutely love spending time with my kids all day, but I don't think there's a mom out there who doesn't watch the clock as bedtime approaches. You either watch it because you can't wait to get a moment's peace or you know the "trauma" your bedtime routine brings about...I've been in both camps. There have been seasons where my kids HATED bedtime. They would do anything they possibly could to get out of going to sleep. The excuses would range from being constantly thirsty all the way to there's a monster in their closet. Then you deal with the crowd mentality when you have multiple kids. It's all contagious. All of your kids could be fine one moment and then losing their you know what the next. It only required one of your kids to mention the monster or how thirsty they are... Then they all start experiencing the same thing.I've even noticed that I'm able to predict how bedtime will go. I start watching them before I announce that it's bedtime and try to see how hyper they are, how sensitive they are, or just how much chaos is going on.I thought going to school would help. They were bound to be exhausted after a full day of school... Right? Wrong. It only ended up causing one kid to be exhausted while the others thought they were big enough to pull all-nighters!I end up scrambling at night trying to convince them to go to sleep, knowing full well they have to get up early the next morning...Is it possible for bedtime to actually go smoothly?YES!After about a week of craziness, I knew something needed to change. When your kids don't sleep well, you don't sleep well, and a tired momma ain't no one's friend!
Our Bedtime Tips and Routine
This bedtime routine has made a HUGE impact on how our evenings go. Our kids have learned our new routine and they even look forward to it after dinner.
Bath Time.
The first and most important part of bedtime is bathtime. I used to have my kids take a shower before school started, but it ended up taking FOREVER. Instead, we do bathtime at night because it helps them to calm down and get relaxed.Our oldest runs upstairs after dinner and starts the bath for him and his brothers. The new addition to our routine is JOHNSON'S® Calming Shampoo. I've always been a huge fan of JOHNSON’S® products for my kids because their products are made up of over 90% of naturally derived ingredients. They truly care about what we use for our kids and that matters to this momma.Not to mention it has a pump top! I don't know about you but I typically have my hands full and the new pump top makes it much easier to wash up the kids while I also play referee.
PJ's And Brush Teeth
Then my kids head over and get snuggled up in their PJ's and brush their teeth. They are obsessed with getting off the sugar bugs so I never have to beg them to brush their teeth! They even make me inspect their teeth when they're finished.
Set Out Clothes For Tomorrow
I let my kids pick out their own clothes for the next day. They love having the freedom to pick it all out and get it ready for school. Sometimes I help them find things that actually match and other times I let them live their best lives! Giving your kids little bits of freedom like this goes a long way.
Reading Lights On For The Big Kids
The big kids are allowed to read for thirty minutes while using their booklights. I don't think they've ever lasted the full thirty minutes but it also counts as the kid's school reading! That works right?
Set The Alarm
The last and final thing we do is set the alarm. The kids all take turns being able to set it and it lets them know when they can get up in the morning. Yes, I have early risers on my hands and they would get up at 4 am if I let them. I have to KEEP them in bed until 6 am. Having the alarm clock helps because they know to look at the time before they hop out in the morning.
What To Do Next
Create your own bedtime routine. Whether you use ours or start something new that fits your family well. Make it fun and stay consistent.You also need to head over to Rite Aid to pick up your own JOHNSON’S® baby products. They're our go-to stop! Everyone there is so friendly and they always make it a positive experience.Our favorites are COTTONTOUCH™ Wash & Shampoo, COTTONTOUCH™ Daily Face & Body Lotion, and JOHNSON'S® Calming Shampoo. The new Cottontouch products JOHNSON’S® has is amazing! They are specifically designed to be gentle enough on newborn skin and they don't leave a gross residue behind. I have kids with sensitive skin so that's huge for me. I need to know the products my kid are using are safe and natural.Don't forget to get your savings today! You can save $1 on any 1 JOHNSON'S® lotion, wash, or hair care item!
Episode 6: Celebrating International Adoption With Tiffany
Meet Tiffany!
Today we're chatting with Tiffany Bluhm! She is a wife, momma, Bible teacher, writer extraordinaire. I have been reading her blog and listening to her on podcasts for years now!After we recorded today's episode, we even realized our lives have collided in real life! A few years ago, my husband was at the She Speak's conference working, and Tiffany just so happened to attend. She was able to see my husband teaching at the conference and she had no idea that he was my husband until I mentioned where he worked. Not to mention, she currently lives in Seattle which is only a few hours away from where I grew up in the Pacific North West.A bit of background on Tiffany and her family... Tiffany is an East Indian women who is married to her wonderful husband. Together they are raising a beautiful multiethnic family with their two little boys. I love seeing how transparent they are as a family and it has been a huge encouragement to my family.
Today, Tiffany is sharing her family's story in adopting their little boy Jericho.
As an adopted woman herself, she had a heart for adoption. However, her and her husband had no idea how quickly they'd throw themselves into the process until it began. She knew she had to be 25 years old to adopt internationally... So what did they do? She and her husband filled out all the paperwork and sent it off on her 25th birthday!They pursued adoption in Uganda, and the process ended up taking them two years! Two years of waiting to bring their little boy home. They had originally set out to adopt two little ones, but complications prevented them from adopting one of the children.Tiffany and her husband spent four months in Uganda getting to know Jericho before they were able to bring him home. Jericho hit it off right away with his new family; however, the concept of daddy was foreign. Jericho ended up calling him uncle for a while at first because that's what he knew.One thing you need to know about Tiffany and her husband is they didn't walk into the adoption process blindly. Her background is in social justice, and she understood that adoption wasn't all rainbows and butterflies.
"Adoption is born our of loss, and there's no getting around that."
As a family, Tiffany and her husband walked alongside Jericho. They started the family mantra early on, "Family for the long haul." They wanted Jericho to know they were with him for the good and hard times.Shortly after arriving home, they put Jericho in trauma counseling. Tiffany knew how vital counseling would be for her son because he had strong memories growing up in Uganda and now creating a new home in the US.
This year the Bluhm's celebrated their 5th adoption anniversary with Jericho!
Over the last five years, they have learned what it means to be a strong family. This means talking... a lot! They talk about it all from Jericho noticing the last of diversity in books he reads to the diversity in his own family. They've walked through some difficult seasons a family, but they do it together.Tiffany says adoption has been the best decision of her entire life after marrying her husband. She knew it wouldn't always be easy, but also knew it would change her family for the better. She has grown as a person and has seen the blessing adoption has had on her life and family.Raising a multiethnic family means you will face unique challenges. Jericho is learning how to stand up against stereotypes and what he can do as a leader. He has a big heart to lead and that means he has a HUGE opportunity to make a change around him.
Challenge:
Tiffany's challenge for all of you is to research people who have been adopted and learn about them as a family. Did you know Superman was adopted!?
Head over and follow Tiffany today!
How To Connect With Your Kids After School
Keeping up with your kids during the school year can feel impossible. Find out how to connect with your kids after school with these fun ideas!Wake up, make breakfast, scramble to get kids ready, drop them off at school, fill your day with countless tasks, pick up the kids from school, make dinner, get the kids ready for bed, breathe, and repeat.I don't know about you, but I'm still trying to make sure the kids get clean clothes and breakfast every day. I feel like I'm on autopilot most of the time during the week. That doesn't always lead to a happy momma and it's not fair to my kids. I end up whipping them through their afterschool routine as quickly as I can so I can get everything done.By the time I lay down for bed, I regret not spending more time with them. I don't want my boys to think I don't make time for them. I also want to make sure I build strong relationships with my boys. I want to be the one they come to when they're going through something tough or when they had the best day and can't wait to share.Those relationships are built by the little moments that happen every day. It's the moment they see you put them first. The moment they spend doing something silly with you. It's all of it.Don't let the little moments pass you by.
Turn everything off.
You may be an amazing multitasker, but your kids need to see that you care. They want quality time with you. Take time every day to turn it all off and put all of your attention on them.
Actually, LISTEN when they talk about their day.
We all ask how our kids days are, but how much do we actually listen when they tell us? It may mean thirty minutes of listening to them go on and on about lunchtime drama. The truth is we start to tune them out... I said it! I know I'm not alone. Use all the willpower you have in you to actually LISTEN! Then you can actually talk back. It matters to them.
Do something together.
Find something fun to do together. You can do something simple like let them help you make dinner or go on a fun after dinner walk. It doesn't have to take an hour. It can be 20 minutes, but make it count.
Sit at the table for family dinner.
Dinner time usually means the kids get dinner while I clean up. However, this year we're intentionally making everyone sit at the table for family dinner. Get this... AT THE SAME TIME. It's crazy.
Start a bedtime routine that matters.
What does bedtime look like in your home? Does it mean chasing kids down to get them in bed so you can finally have a minute to yourself? Start slow and create a new bedtime routine. Add in a little story or maybe a little dance off!How do you reconnect with your kids after they get home from school?
Be A Better Mom By Doing Less
Be A Better Mom By Doing Less
As a mother, we're asked to be the caretakers, boo-boo doctors, chef, counselor, comforter, snuggler, the most imaginative voice for their stories, and their cheerleader. The job of a mom is so much bigger than I ever realized. Most of the time it feels like we're being pulled in a million different directions at every possible moment.I want to be the best mom I can be for my kids, but I don't know if I can ever be the mom people tell me to be. The one that's always on time, makes all homemade snacks, keeps my kids off video games, schedules countless play dates, keeps a consistent schedule, never yells, and is always patient.In fact... I know I will never be that mother.I used to feel bad about it. I felt like I was doing my kids a disservice by not being everything for them. Then I heard something at church this week that completely changed my way of thinking of myself as a mother.
"Do less by doing more." -Derwin Grey
Now, what does it mean? Our pastor was talking about our need to be productive and accomplish more all the time. The problem is we want to do it all but instead, we burn ourselves out. In the end, we're not doing any of it well. We start keeping track of all the countless things on our plates rather than looking at how well we actually execute them.
This is why we can do more by actually doing less.
I can be a better mom by doing less for my kids. I can choose a few things to work my butt off on, rather than everything. My kids don't care if I do every single thing for them.In fact, they love me for who I am. Even if that means they're saddled with a mom that is always behind on laundry, yells when she shouldn't, lets them play more video games than they should, and survives on copious amounts of caffeine.None of that matters to them because I'm also the mom that apologizes when I do things wrong, would rather spend time with them than live in a perfect house, and do my best to raise them with all the love in my heart.Stop letting the world tell you to do more for your kids. Stop listening to the lies that you're only a good enough mom if you do a, b, and c.
You are a great mom. You are enough.
This week, think of three things you want to rock. Then let the rest go. I promise the world won't end because your dishes have piled up in the sink. You won't ever look back on your life and regret the laundry you had to wash a few times in a row because you forgot.You're going to look back at your life and be grateful that you didn't allow life's expectations of a perfect mom burn you out.Your kids don't want perfection, they want you.
Switching From Nap Time To Quiet Time
Nap time used to be a special time in our home. It used to be my moment of sanity where I could take my first deep breath all day. Then my kids started to get older. Nap time started to change for each of them.My oldest went from a two hour nap to sitting in bed the whole time, begging to come out.My husband and I had to figure out what to do. I hoped Liam would just fall asleep, but no. Instead, his constant asking to get up would keep his brothers up. Then it hit us. Nap time had to change. The days of all three kids sleeping at the same time were over.We sat the boys down one night and told them nap times were changing and explained what they would look like.The younger two kept their nap times the same. They laid down while listening to an audible book and then could get up when it was over.
Momma Secret...
They never stayed awake until the book was done. They usually fell asleep about ten minutes in and I turned off their book when I could hear their snoring begin.The big change was for Liam. Instead of taking a nap he transitioned to quiet time.Liam lays down the same time his brothers do. Then he sets an hour timer. During quiet time he reads for 30 minutes and then he can play a video game on his iPad or keep reading until the timer goes off.Quiet time hasn't been as hard of a transition as I thought. Granted his brothers weren't thrilled about the idea, but they adjusted. Liam may be too old for a nap, but he still needs time during the day to calm down. It also gives momma sometime to herself.Are you about to transition to quiet time in your own home?
Here are a few ideas that you can start to implement with your own quiet time.
Separate your kids so your "quiet timer" can have a space to themselves. This can be on the couch, in a guest room, or even at the kitchen table. Then you can choose what their options are during quiet time.
Reading Time.
Give your kiddo a few picture books to read in bed or get them started on a new chapter book.
Coloring Books.
Have a stash of coloring books in their quiet space so they can pick one and quietly color.
Listen to a book.
Our kids love listening to books. You can get them started on a fun Podcast or let them listen to an Audible book.
Arts and Crafts.
Do you have a crafter on your hand? Get out the craft supplies and let them put their creative juices to work.
Pretend Play.
Let your kiddo play with their favorite action figures or quiet toys.What does quiet time look like in your home?
Episode 5: Exploring Cultures Through Food
Episode 5: Exploring Culture Through Food With Larisha
Meet Larisha!
Today we're chatting with Larisha from We're Parents blog. Larisha and I have been friends for a few years now and I love being able to talk with her about her journey of meeting her fiancè Andrew and raising two little girls. Her crunchy mom blog has slowly turned into a full blown food blog that will make you drool!Today, Larisha is sharing how she has explored her fiancè's culture through the kitchen. Now, her girls are just as excited about trying new foods as they are!
Challenge:
Try that one food from your partner's culture that you've avoided! Cow tongue anyone! Also, find someone in your partner's family and ask them to teach you how to make some of their favorite dishes!Share the process with Larisha and I!
Momma's Quick Tip: How To Make Your Mornings Easier With Kids
I'm not sure about you guys, but mornings in our home can get a little Dr. Seuess... I mean kids sliding down banisters, dogs eating kid's forgotten breakfasts, half-naked kids, and exhausted parents. It gets crazy. You'd think summers would have made it a bit easier and my kids would be sleeping in.... but no. They are still waking up at the crack of dawn.This is exactly why I've tried to find a solution this summer. I have no desire for the craziness to continue into our new school year when we have even less time in the mornings. Nope.I need it better now.I did it. I found out a little trick that has been helping our mornings go much smoother! I taught my kids an independent routine in the mornings. It sounds simple enough, right?Here's what it looks like.
As soon as my kids roll out of the bed in the morning, they go to their chore charts. Here is where we got ours --> Chore Chart. Then my oldest helps everyone read the first step.
Make Beds.
The first thing they need to do is make their beds. It's one less thing to do later and it teaches them a great habit. Sometimes the little one needs help and they know everyone's beds need to be made. Instead of letting him fend for himself, they help each other.
Eat Breakfast.
I learned an amazing recipe from the Free Cheap Or Fun blogger herself. She taught her kids to make scrambled eggs in the microwave and it's a hit in our house! My oldest gets all the coffee mugs ready and makes his brothers eggs in the morning.He sprays the mug, cracks two eggs, whisks until his heart is content, and then pops it in the microwave for 1 minute and 20 seconds. Done.They love eggs so this fills their little tummies until I get up and make them pancakes or oatmeal.
Brush Teeth.
After breakfast, they all saunter upstairs to brush their teeth. Yes, I have to put that on their charts otherwise all their teeth would fall out of their little heads. They always try and skip brushing their teeth. This way they have to get it done to be done with chores for the day.
Clean Room.
It doesn't matter how often they clean their room, it's always a mess. I love having them start off their day with a clean room. I feel like it starts our day off smoothly and with the least amount of stress.By cleaning it often, it makes cleaning it up throughout the day much easier! Instead of an entire day's worth of mess, it's just a few hours.
Extra Chores.
This is the time for each kiddo to do their special chore. Some of these chores change each week to keep it exciting. Yes, my kids are still at the point that they're excited about chores and I plan to live it up as long as humanly possible.If you're trying to figure out what chores to give your kids, you can head over here for age-appropriate chore lists ---> Chore List.Once all the chores are done for the morning, my boys can watch a show. It's a great motivator because what child doesn't want to watch morning cartoons. Instead of watching it all morning, I make my kids earn it.By the time the whole house is awake and getting started for the day, we have a calm and peaceful home. I need all the peace and calm I can find with three boys. I've found by starting this routine, we've all started our day happier and there's been less fighting.The kids work together to finish up so they can watch their morning show. Obviously, some days are better than others. I simply remind them they all need to finish their chores to be done. It pushes them to encourage each other and offer to help when the little one needs a bit of a push.
Episode 4: Embrace The Chaos
Join us for our first episode in our new series... Coffee and Chai!
Along with our interviews, Joel and I thought it would be fun to start a series where we just chat! We're going to answer your questions, show you a little glimpse into our lives, and maybe even let you know how crazy we are!Get yourself a cup of coffee or chai and join us this week as we talk about what it looks like to raise three boys under seven years old.
Products and links we mentioned:
Paul Tripp Parenting Bookhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JdcLE2NGCo
Challenge:
Embrace the chaos in your life!
What To Expect When Coming To Our Boy Filled Home
If you come over to our house be ready for.....
A full on Nerf gun battle.
You better be able to hold your own because they can smell weakness. You also have to have eyes in the back of your head so you can see when they switch out the nice nerf bullets for sharp and hard items. True story.
The kids to take it to far.
If you give in and play with our kids be ready for them to take it to far or never want to stop. You’re working them up so you better expect it! Be the boss and find your voice when you’re done.
Non stop snacking.
Little boys are never full. They snack all day long and it only gets worse as they get bigger. Even if you come to our house for dinner, you're going to see our kids eat fist, second, and third dinner. All little boys have an inner hobbit that they have to feed.
Huge imaginations.
There isn't anything like a little boy's imagination. It's never ending and it can take you to places you never imagined. You will get to see our kids turning their forks into planes, their bedrooms into lava filled caves, and the couch into a boat that's taking them to safety. Buckle up and enjoy the ride.
A lot of noise.
It’s never quiet in our home. Our kids have one voice inside and outside. We remind them about five dozen times a day but even their whispers are freaking loud. If it does get quiet you better run because they’re getting into something!
Bathroom mysteries.
Okay, it's not really a mystery. Boys simply don't flush. It doesn't matter that I've asked them hundreds of times. It doesn't matter that it's disgusting. They're simply in such a hurry that they "don't have time" to flush the toilet when they're finished using it.
Best friends.
Our kids don’t just like having people over. They love it. If you play your cards right you’ll become auntie and uncle status before you know it and they’ll become your little buddy. They’ll have your back forever and never forget all the times you played with them.
To sum it up, you will never get bored when you come to our house...
Road Trip Travel Hacks
Road Trip Travel Hacks
Growing up our family went on quite a few road trips. We drove everywhere. We’d go to the beach, the lake, friends houses, visit family, and go on adventures. IT wasn’t until I had kids that I realized why we drove everywhere.It’s freaking expensive to fly the whole family! It wasn’t as bad at first because babies fly free. As soon as they turn two, life changes again and now you have to fork out a few hundred dollars for them.As a family of five, you can imagine how expensive it gets....So road trips here come. Buckle up kids and get ready for an entire day in the car! Prepare for constant bickering with your brothers on how much they touch you or the fact that they’ll try to eat all your snacks. Excited!?The funny thing is none of that matters to my kids. They love road trips! They love looking out their window and seeing all the new places, bugging each other, and watching movies on their iPads.At least my hubby and I have slowly figured out a few road trip hacks to surviving family road trips.
Pack light.
The assumption when traveling with kids is to BRING IT ALL. Don’t do it! As a parent you’re the in-house pack mule and carrying it all is a nightmare. Bring the essentials and let each kiddo bring ONE special toy. Being a minimalist for a few days won’t hurt them.
Pack a cooler with snacks.
We recently picked up these coolers for the kids, and they’re a lifesaver! We load them up with snacks, and it keeps them cold. It cuts down on stops, and it keeps them busy.
Get something novel.
Novel is key on a road trip. If you have a DVD player you can get a new movie from the discount section, or you can get a little activity book. Pull it out halfway through your trip when your kids are getting restless.
Plan 1-2 stops where the kids can get out and stretch their legs.
The goal of road trips is to get to your destination fast, but planning at least one stretch your legs time will help. I don’t mean a potty break either. Find a rest stop and play a game of tag. Let them run and get their wiggles out.
What are your road trip hacks?
60+ Things To Do This Summer With The Whole Family
The summer is officially here! Alarm clocks are getting hidden away, bedtimes are extended, and parents everywhere are feeling a little frantic. It's because now, we as parents are responsible to fill our children's schedules with all of the fun adventures they've been looking forward to. We can't look to teachers for the next few months...It's all on us.Our kids are going to wake up every morning and the first thing they're going to ask is, "What are we doing today?"Don't worry, I'm here to help. I have put together a list of fun activities to keep your family busy this summer! My friends and I put this list together because we were tired of racking our brains every day last summer, trying to think about what we could possibly do that wouldn't mean spending all of our money each day.Summers can get expensive! If you're not careful, you can end up spending a few times your house payment on a few months of adventures for the family! Instead, why not save up for one big trip or activity and then fill your summer with cheap, family-friendly summer activities?
Summer Activities For Parents!
Whip up your own Mango Black Tea Lemonade at home.Try a new cuisine on the grill.Choose a DIY project to work on for your home.Create an epic slip n slide in your backyard.Take family pictures. Invite your friends over for a BBQ.Host a wine tasting.Go camping.Plan fun date nights for you and your spouse.Read a book.Get a makeover and try a new hairstyle.Go to the movies.Get a tattoo. (It's okay to live a little.)Host a game night with your friends.Do a scavenger hunt around your town with a group of friends.Try a new hobby.
Family Friendly Summer Activities!
Fidgit spinner challenges.Glow stick tag.Build wooden race car tracks.Campout inside.Find out what melts in the sun. Play Shoot and Splash with Nerf Guns!Get your race cars muddy and then have a car wash. Build a bird feeder. Have your kids paint with ice cubes.Make a backyard obstacle course.Play a fun game of balloon pinatas!Make your own rock tic tac toe game.Make your own chalk.Do a DIY sprinkler relay!Have your kids try their hands at chalk art. Play glow in the dark bowling!Read a book as a family then watch the movie!Help your kids build a marble run!Freeze your own dinosaur eggs. Try making a stick raft.Make up your own minute to win it games. Put a water blob in the backyard!Build a tin-foil river.Play water balloon tennis.Write your own book.Make rainbow popsicles.Whip up a batch of banana pops. Have a paint war!Throw a late night, glow in the dark movie night outside.Play a color scavenger hunt.Try water balloon baseball.Make homemade play-dough.Create your own fairy garden.Make bird feeders!Freeze your treasure!Paint with DIY foam chalk paint!Sit inside an air fort.Do science experiments!Adopt a pet rock.
Parent Hacks For The Summer!
Have summer essentials packs in the car.Make a summer reading log.Put together boredom buster jar.Put up a family schedule on the fridge.Have the kids use popsicle drip cups.
Don't forget to head over to my Instagram so you can keep up on our summer adventures!
Episode 3: Christie's Exploration Of Her Own Culture
Meet Christie!
Today, we're chatting with Christie from Raising Whasians! She is a Korean mother who's learning about her own culture while teaching her children what it means to be American and Korean. She shares her journey from nurse to blogger and all the nitty gritty in between.Christie walks us through her adoption story and the journey to learning more about her own heritage. I love the way her whole family comes together to learn about Korean culture together.
A few things we mention on today's episode:
Mixed Me by Taye DiggsChristie's Adoption PostMy Adoption Post
Challenge:
Show your kids diversity throughout their lives in your own unique way.
Follow Christie Along On Her Journey
Blog/ Twitter/ Instagram/ Facebook
Episode 2: Becky's Global Journey
The Almost Indian Family | Episode 2: Becky's Global Journey
Today, we're chatting with Becky from Kid World Citizen. She is a Spanish teacher turned world traveler with her multiethnic family. She and her family travel the world, learning about new cultures. She also helps teachers and parents who want to teach their own families about the world around them.Becky's love for the world comes across the entire episode as she shares how her family has been able to blend four cultures into one unique family. She jokes that her family has been called the United Nations family and I can definitely see why! She's answering your questions on adoption and world travel, sharing a glimpse into their big move to Mexico, and all the funny stories in between.Challenge: Make a family calendar with all of the cultural traditions that your family wants to do throughout the year. Don't forget to tag #TheAlmostIndianFamily as you take on the challenge! Becky and I can't wait to see what traditions your family chooses!
Follow Becky along on her journey by heading over to her blog and social media channels.
Blog/ Facebook/ Twitter/ Instagram
Links Mentioned:
Summer Bucket List For Families
This post is sponsored by Tyson Foods, Inc., but the content and opinions are my own.
The sun is shining and the bugs are out. It can only mean one thing. We're getting close to another summer here in the South.Kids everywhere are counting down the days until summer break begins and our family is already making a summer bucket list. We've been filling it full of all the adventures we want to take as a family and everything we want to see.This summer, I'm challenging our family to do something special. I'm challenging us to try and cook the majority of our meals on the grill! I love the ease of whipping up a delicious dinner on the grill because it means fewer dishes and I can soak up the sunshine.
We're kicking off the challenge a few weeks early! Last night for dinner we whipped up Ball Park® Hot Dogs and Tyson® boneless skinless chicken breasts. It hardly took any prep at all, and our entire family was as happy as can be.Summers can seem intimidating for families, especially moms! The kids are home from school and now you’re responsible for planning everything out on your own!Do you want to know the tip I live by?
Make it easy! Kids don’t need a summer full of hectic schedules, even if it is fun things to do. Make it simple and have fun! Stay home and grill rather than go out every night. Let the kids help you make yummy side dishes! You can even make your groceries go around what you can pop on the grill! Especially if it means daddy has to do all the cooking!One point for mom!
I can guarantee you’re going to thank me for a stress-free summer.
Summer Bucket List
- Grill everything.
- Enjoy a mango black tea lemonade.
- Do a movie night in your back yard.
- Have a water balloon fight.
- Make a giant bed and sleep in the living room.
- Take a road trip.
- Make something from scratch.
- Cook as a family.
- Plant a garden.
- Try a new hobby.
- Watch fireworks.
- Do a scavenger hunt.
- Try a science experiment.
- Fly a kite.
- Roast s’mores.
- Go on a hike.
- Have a party.
- Host your own lemonade stand.
- Camp out in your backyard.
- Go to a splash park.
- Go to the zoo.
- Build a fort.
- Learn a new language.
- Watch a foreign movie.
- Star gaze as a family.
- Go on a family bike ride.
- Do a family service project.
- Catch bugs.
- Celebrate a half birthday.
- Create an obstacle course.
- Wash the cars together.
- Make a treat for your neighbors.
- Have a race.
- Make a birdfeeder.
- Have a family dance party.
- Play charades.
- Make cereal necklaces.
- Host your own family cook-off challenge.
- Put on a play.
- Visit mom or dad at work.
- Make a family music video.
- Have the kids make dinner for everyone.
- Make breakfast for dinner.
- Make a foreign dish.
- Try something new.
- Do something nice for someone.
- Have a mommy-kid date.
- Go bowling.
- Draw with chalk.
- Run a 5k.
First Things First
Head over to your local Walmart and get all the groceries you need! Follow my advice and make it easier by doing online grocery pick up! I don’t know why it took me so long to figure it out! All you have to do is choose your groceries on the app, schedule your pick up, submit your order, and drive over.They even load it into your car for you! It couldn’t be any easier! My kids love looking back in their seats and chatting up their employees and Walmart makes the whole experience a mother’s dream!
How To Challenge Racism And Prejudice As A Family
Over the last eight years in my interracial marriage, my eyes have been open up to a new world.
I had no idea how sheltered I was in my own little bubble. I grew up in a white community, with a white family, and white friends.I loved everyone I met, so it wasn't an issue of any ill-feelings on my part. I simply didn't know a life outside my own. I never learned about cultures around the world other than the little bit they teach us in history class.It wasn't until I married my wonderful husband that I saw the harsh reality that racism exists. The fact that an entire people group could be stereotyped as one personality or one characteristic of an extremist. It's easier for society to clump people together rather than get to know the actual people involved.Even though you may have the same ethnic background as someone, by no way means your culture was the exact same growing up. Our culture is so much more than just our ethnicity. It's the way you grew up, your beliefs, whether or not you were the oldest in the family, the situations you've experienced, and everything that has shaped you to be the person you are today.
Racism and prejudice aren't hidden from society. It's out in the open every day.
We see it in the news.We see if when we walking in town and someone crosses the street just to avoid walking next to a man of color.We see it when people make a rude, stereotypical joke to a friend.We see it when people spew hateful, toxic things to people they've never even met.It's happening every day, all around you. Here's the problem. People either give excuses to why they did what they did or claim they didn't know any better. We're no longer living in a day and age where those excuses work. We are fighting for a better world for our kids. This fight means we have to stand up and say this is not ok. We have to challenge wrong thinking and start learning about those around us.
Let's start by learning a few definitions.
Racism: prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior.Prejudice: preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.Ignorance: lack of knowledge or information.Racism and prejudice are both learned behaviors. Through out our lives people have shaped what we believe. Maybe you grew up in a family that made racist remarks. Or maybe they lived in their bubble like I did growing up and didn't know better.
Either way, ignorance leads to both racism and prejudice.
So how can we stop it? What can we do to make sure our kids don't learn this hate?We can teach our kids. It starts as simple as that. We can help them to have a deep love for cultures around the world. We can remind them to ask questions when they don't know something rather than lay a stereotypical label on it.Remember, kids learn by example. You need to be the right example to them and challenge yourself. If you mess up, admit it to them and have a conversation about it. If you see someone in their life, whether it's a family member or someone in the media, call out bad behavior. Don't ignore it when it happens. If you do, your kids will be left trying to figure it out on their own.
How can you challenge racism, prejudice, and ignorance around you?
Celebrating Summer With Mango Black Tea Lemonade
If you've followed me for any length of time you know, I have a pretty significant Starbucks addiction.
I constantly find myself waiting in their drive-through for a little pick me up for the day. I have three kids 6 and under, what can I say! I'm always near or past the point of exhaustion and need some help to keep up with them.The problem is that my kids are officially to the age where they beg me for little treats there. If I don't order them something, they act like their little lives are over. Don't worry I don't let them boss me around and they only get something when they have a good attitude, or I have no will-power for the day.As we're getting closer to the summer months, I know I'm going to be tempted to go every day! However, I'm going to make this summer better than any other summer we've ever had.
My motto this summer is to make it simple.
I'm over this idea that things have to be crazy to keep the kids happy. Their schedules are full all during the school year and I just want to have fun while they're home. I want to let all the stress go and make it simple!
Step number one to a simple summer, make my drinks at home! This week, I tried my hand at my very own mango black tea lemonade. To say it was a success is an understatement.It was perfect. It was summer in a glass, and I had to fight the kids to keep my glass full!Every time I turned around, they were there to steal sips and beg me for more!Then my hubby got home, and it was all over. It's a huge crowd pleaser! It was super easy to whip up, and I'm officially making it my go-to drink for parties and summer meals.
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Make your summer simple with us! Toss the hectic schedule, the crazy expectations, and relax with a big iced mango black tea lemonade!
The Stage Of Motherhood We're Never Ready For
Okay, you guys true story I either need a new puppy or a baby.
It’s as simple as that. I’m ready for something because all I keep seeing in my Instagram feed our babies. So many freaking babies and all I want right now is to hold one and snuggle one and have one. The problem is I have a Husband. He doesn’t seem to think an Instagram feed full of itty bitty teeny tiny babies is a reason for one more child. Okay, maybe it’s the fact that he woke up to my three-year-old peeing in the garage and our five-year-old got threatened to get kicked out of gym childcare today?But you guys come on.
I’m going to chalk that up to a day full of mischievous little antics that remind me I’m a boy mom.
Okay, maybe I really don’t want any other things to add to my life right now. Maybe, I’m just going off to you guys so that I can somehow have reality come back into my mind and remind me that I am happy to be out of diapers for my kids and be able to sleep through the night.My husband and I are entering into a new phase of parenting. This is probably the real reason I’ve been thinking so much of having another baby lately.
This is my last year with my babies home in the morning.
This year my oldest son was the only one in school, and my other two babies got to stay home with mama all day long. Next year my five-year-old enters kindergarten and my baby will start going to preschool. Excuse me while I hide under my covers and cry my eyes out asking myself where my babies went.When I walk down the street with my boys, I always have one of them by the hand. It's usually Lukey Bear, my youngest. He always loved holding my hand. He'd look for it every time we went out together. Today, I noticed I was holding him by the wrist. It was the only way to hold onto him because he was trying to run off and walk with his big brothers.
Then it hit me.
He's becoming a big kid. They are becoming boys. They are no longer little toddlers and babies, but now they're boys. We are starting to go through countless pairs of jeans due to torn up knees. I’m realizing that I can’t get through one week with one grocery trip anymore. Instead, I have to constantly run to the store to feed these three endless bellies. They want to have grown-up conversations with me where they talk about their dreams for the future. They’re all about what school to their friends. They would just about anything if they thought their friends would like it.
I don’t know how all of you mothers out there have done this before me.
When I look at these boys, I always see our babies in their eyes. I remember the moment I first looked into their beautiful brown eyes. I remember rocking them to sleep countless nights. I remember nursing them in the middle of the night.Part of me is sad.
Part of me looks at them with tears in my eyes and wonders how it all went by so fast.
I remember people used to tell me to hold onto every single moment. They told me not to blink in fear of missing out on what was before me.I have to be honest. There’ve been so many times in motherhood that I've wished for seasons to be over. I’ve prayed to God that I could simply get through to the next day, get through to the next season, or my kids would finally sleep through the night so that I could get a moment's rest.It's not all been easy.
Motherhood requires us to sacrifice a little bit of time, ourselves, and more than I realized.
I would do it over and over, time and again, because it’s all led us to this point right now. My kids are who they are because of the sacrifices my husband and I have made for them. We would do anything for our kids.Motherhood is painful.Motherhood is a blessing.Motherhood has transformed my life more than words can express.Motherhood has given me hope on the hardest days.Right now, motherhood means letting go.It means I have to watch my little boys grow up before my very eyes and let them experience new adventures. I wish I could be that crazy mom follows them everywhere they go. It wouldn’t bother me to see the looks that I got from the other mother's wondering why in the world I can’t just hold on to the alone time I've finally gotten after all this time.But I doubt my Husband would let me be that crazy mom. Instead, we’re going to hold each other’s hands as we watch our kids go off to school next year. Even now they’re talking about it, deciding on backpacks they’re going to get, talking about lunch they're going to enjoy together, and getting more excited it as every moment passes.
The moment is going to come as I drop them off to their first day next year.
They’re going to get that fear in their eyes and run to momma. They’re going to wonder if they can do it if they can survive an entire day without mom and dad by their side. You guys I have to get myself to a point emotionally where I can hug them tight, give them a big kiss, and let them know that they can do anything they set their minds to. Even though inside I'm praying I can keep it together until I get out to the car.Motherhood means making the tough choices for our kids. It means being strong even when we feel weak.I have officially turned in to that mom that comes up to you on the street and says don’t blink. Hold on to every moment with your kids because it’s going to go by in a flash. Your babies are going to turn into little boys and girls, and they’re going to take everything that you've taught them and shown them about the world and put it into action on their own.
10 Ways To Keep Your Home Clean With Dogs
*This post is sponsored by The Libman Company but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.*
As most of you heard from our fun little "adoption" story, we now have two dogs.
We are a huge pet loving family, so it's not a big surprise that we've adopted two over the years, even if I did it while my husband was away on a work trip one time...Oops.What can I say? When the kids and I saw an adorable two-pound puppy, I couldn't help but take the little princess home.My problem is now we have two large dogs to keep up with. I already have three little boys who have a passion for making messes. Now, I have five little mess makers to follow around.It's simple really.They all clean up after themselves. They never forget to tidy up. They love to keep things clea... Okay, I can't even get through that sentence. All of my boys and both dogs live to wreck my house. If anything they're a little team that follows each other around tracking dirt everywhere they go.Don't worry. I'm here to share all the tips we've learned over the years.
10 Ways To Keep Your Home Clean With Dogs
1. Clean up the accidents correctly.
Even if you can't smell it, your pet does, and they will think it's the right spot to pee or poop. One of the best ways to clean it is to sprinkle baking soda over the area and spray it with vinegar. Let it dry completely and vacuum it up.
2. Keep your dog bowl and water bowl on a rubber mat.
Dogs are notorious for making a mess when eating and drinking. By placing their bowls on a rubber mat, it makes it harder to slide around.
3. Bathe your dogs frequently.
Bathing them frequently helps reduce their pet dander, shedding, and the dog smell we all "love." This helps a lot if your family deals with allergies.
4. Regular brushing.
If you have a dog that sheds, your best bet is regular brushing. Some dogs love being brushed, but most importantly it reduces the amount of dog hair in your home.
5. Get The Right Supplies.
Buy a mop with a detachable head that you can wash. I use the Libman Freedom® Spray Mop. It's my favorite because you can fill up the canister with any cleaner you want and the mop head is detachable. After you're done cleaning with it, you can take it off and throw it in the washing machine.
6. Train your dogs to lay on one spot.
It could be a dog bed or even a blanket. Make sure you wash it regularly. It will reduce the dog smell in your home and helps them not to track any built up dirt around your home.
7. Clean your dog's paws when they come inside.
There is nothing worse than coming into your kitchen and seeing muddy dog paw prints everywhere. Wipe their paws with a wet towel or wet wipe when they come inside. It will help you avoid any messy surprises.
8. Vacuum weekly and use lint rollers.
Dog hair... It gets everywhere when you have dogs, especially if you have a long-haired dog. You can avoid leaving the house looking like you have a full layer of it on your pants with one simple chore. Vacuum daily and use a lint roller on your couch.
9. Clean up your dog's toys.
Buy toys for your dogs that can get washed. You could throw them in a sink with hot soapy water or in the washing machine for the extra dirty toys.
10. Get a cubby for all of your dog's items.
Organize your home by keeping all of your dog's toys, food, and leashes in one area of your home. Then you won't find yourself searching the house for it when you need it right away.
What do you need to do next?
Head over to your local store and buy the supplies you need today. The number one cleaning supply I have at home for my dogs is my Libman Freedom® Spray Mop. I love the fact that I can fill it up with any cleaner I want to use. I use different cleaners based on how dirty my floors are or what I'm cleaning up. The choices are endless!Not to mention, I love the ability I have to throw the green mop head straight into the washing machine after a messy day. It can hold up to at least 100 washes! I feel like it's always fresh and clean when I use it. The mop has a neck that can move around 360 degrees so you can get to the toughest spot in your house. It works great for our tile bathroom floors and even our kitchen hardwood floors!Head over to their site and find the closest retailer to you!
Our Family Doesn't Match And That's Okay
I recently went on a field trip with my oldest. He was so excited for me to come with him so he could show me everything. He wanted me to meet his friends, hang out with him, talk to his teacher, and spend one on one time with him.As the oldest of three brothers, he doesn't always get alone time with momma. It's something we both love to savor.His little field trip was precious. We went to a local farm and learned how to plant watermelons, fed and talked to sheep, and played with his friends. My favorite part of the day was looking up always to find his little hand searching for mine.He was proud to show me off and I loved it. I hope he always searches for me in the crowd.
Throughout the field trip, I answered dozens of questions from his friends. One conversation definitely topped the rest.Are you Liam's mom?Yes.That's weird.Why is that?Well, because he's black and you're white.
I laughed and simply said that some families look different than each other.
She smiled and ran off to play with her friends.Later that night, I brought it up at the dinner table. I told my husband how funny it was. Liam smiled and said all his friends say he's black. He wasn't phased at all by this. If anything it made him proud. He's grown up in a multiethnic family and two of his best friends are his cousins who are black and white.The more my husband and I talked about this later that night, the more I learned about his childhood. He even talked about it during his sermon.As an Indian kid, his friends didn't know how to identify him. During the summer he'd get darker and kids would classify him as their black friend. Then the other months of the year he'd get lighter and friends would say he was Asian.As little kids, they don't have a true understanding of racial awareness. They see something that looks different to them and want to figure it out.
Liam's friends see a family that doesn't match.
They see a boy that's not white. They don't know his cultural identity, so they use what they know so it makes sense to them.I know all three of my boys have a long road ahead of them. They will have countless times of explaining their ethnic background to people around them. Whether is's at school with their friends or in the workplace, it's going to happen.As their mom I get worried they will get frustrated. I don't want them to feel pressured to fit into someone else's mold of who or what they should be.Instead, I want my boys to see it as an opportunity to create conversations. I want them to boldly share their culture with their friends. I want them to know how important it is to create conversations and to break down this idea that it's bad to ask questions when they come from a good place.I love that my son's friends ask questions about our family.
They innocently want to understand the world around them.
I'm more than happy to answer questions and to show people that families come in every shape, size, and color.