How can I reach my savings goal?

This is a calculator provided by Bank of America. It is really useful for all moms that want to keep track of their family's financial well being.
How can I reach my savings goal?

The freezer is our friend!

The freezer can be an asset to a working mother. Not only can we reduce the
number of trips to the supermarket, we can prepare food ahead of time for
getting meals on the table quickly and easily. Here are some ways I have tried
to maximize the use of my freezer:
Making Extra: While I have all the
ingredients available, I double my recipe and freeze the extras. This is good
for families who don't want leftovers within days of eating the original meal.
It doesn't take a lot of additional work and comes in handy for a quick meal.
You can easily cook 8 pieces of chicken rather than 4 or make a super huge pot
of soup .
Plan a Cook-A-Thon: I sometimes get ambitious on the weekend and
cook up a bunch of dishes specifically for the freezer. I plan my menu and buy
the ingredients accordingly. I try to make dishes with similar ingredients, such
as ground beef, so I can take advantage of the savings on family packs. You can
have spaghetti sauce on one burner and chili on the other with meatloaves in the
oven. It never hurts to have some baked goods in the freezer in case you have
unexpected company or you have to bring treats for "goody" day at work.
Freeze for Convenience: Not only do I freeze quantities of food for a family
meal, I also do single portions. For instance, I will buy a big bag of bagels
and freeze half of them in individual wrappings. It also helps prevent the
bagels from going stale--which can happen by the time we are reaching the end of
the bag. For breakfast, I can take one bagel out of the freezer, defrost it in
the microwave and then pop it in the toaster. My teenagers are always hungry so
I freeze one or 2 hamburgers in a bag. You can take leftovers and freeze them in
single servings for those nights that someone needs to eat ahead of the rest of
the family or you happen to be eating alone.
Seasonal Savings: I try to take
advantage of fruits & vegetables when they are in season. You can get larger
quantities and save money. Green and red peppers can be sliced and frozen on
cookie sheets before placing in freezer bags. By doing this, they won't stick
together and you can pull out what you need from a resealable freezer bag.

Fun Advice

By: Lisa Armstrong

Years from now when your kids recall their fondest childhood memories, chances are they'll talk about the great times the family spent together—you chasing them through the park, rowdy games of tag, charades in the family room while the rain pummeled the windows. Play is the essence of childhood. "It's how children learn everything the best, from reading to counting," explains Lawrence Cohen, PhD, author of Playful Parenting. But let's face it: We often feel too busy to get goofy with the kids. Yet play is good for us, too, a perfect way to reconnect with family at the end of a hectic day. "Playing is how parents and children—from toddlers to teenagers—communicate best," says Stephen Virgilio, PhD, author of Active Start for Healthy Kids. In fact, experts suggest that families get at least 30 minutes of play every day. To help you get your daily dose, we've collected creative, easy activities that will remind you how deliciously wonderful it is to simply be a kid.Family RoomIndoor OlympicsHere's an indoor contest that's low competition, high fun, from The Children's
Busy Book, by Trish Kuffner: Take turns standing on a taped starting line and see how far you can jump. After everyone decorates a paper plate to make a personalized discus, tape off a square on the floor and see who can toss his discus into it. For shot put, try throwing a balloon across a string line several feet away. The balloons won't travel far, so anyone who makes it deserves a medal! Bonus Learning Perk Even simple sports improve motor function and hand-eye coordination.Socks OffDr. Cohen calls this game "intro to wrestling"—just right for not-so-rough moms. Everyone takes off shoes but keeps socks on and then sits in a circle with all feet in the middle. After someone shouts, "Ready, set, go!" try to get everyone else's socks off using your feet, hands, whatever—while keeping yours on. The last person with a sock on wins.
Bonus Learning Perk Physical games like this enhance motor skills as they encourage strategic thinking.
Fall Fashion ShowIt's Fashion Week chez vous! Donna Erickson, host of the PBS show Donna's Day and author of Fabulous Funstuff for Families, suggests this entertaining way to prepare for back-to-school shopping: Have your kids model last year's outfits so you can see what fits and what doesn't.

Raising a teen

By: Sara Eckel source- workingmother.com
Certainly the challenges of raising a tween or teen
aren't new. What is new is that employers are recognizing working parents'
urgent need for support handling these challenges. That's why innovative
programs for adolescents—though they're far from widespread—are gaining ground
at some forward-thinking Working Mother 100 Best Companies. These businesses
understand that they need to provide support beyond child care for babies and
that bigger kids mean bigger challenges. They've also learned that their
employees' peace of mind is priceless. So they've let it be known that working
moms like Amanda can turn to them for help."If a parent is sitting at her desk
with a project that's due tomorrow and she can't locate her child, what's going
to take priority?" asks Maureen Corcoran, vice president of diversity at
Prudential Financial. "It's a problem that begs for help."Amanda signed up for
Carlson Companies' emotional support counseling, available through the company's
LifeWorks program. She and her daughter received several free visits with a
therapist who understood the parent-teen dynamic. The counseling helped mom and
daughter negotiate a balance between Amanda's desire for discipline and
Christina's wish for freedom. "Sometimes you just need to know the right thing
to say, and counseling from a professional really helps with that," says Amanda.

Individual counseling is only one of many ways that
companies are extending a helping hand to their mom and dad employees. Others
include support groups for the parents of teenagers and, for kids, cool camps
that promote building self-esteem and learning about such subjects as science,
as well as programs that offer volunteer opportunities and college-preparation
classes. Tackling the Tough StuffIt was standing room only at PNC Financial
Services Group's first Parenting-the-Teen Support Group in 2004, offered as part
of the company's observance of Effective Parenting Month. Feedback from the
event showed that working parents were spooked about issues like teen drug use
and eating disorders and wanted to know more about communicating with their
kids. The session's popularity spurred the launch of twice monthly Teen and
Tween Talks, in which experts lead lunchtime discussions on anything from teen
pregnancy to summer jobs. "When your child is young and in day care, you feel
like you have support," says Erin Walsh, the mother of two teenagers and a
technology officer for PNC in Pittsburgh. "The teachers work closely with your
child, so you can talk with them about parenting and developmental issues. Then
your kid hits twelve—and you're on your own."Erin finds PNC's teen support group
particularly helpful, especially the advice from other parents.

read full article...

Chill out, mom!

By: Michele Bender
Chill Out, Mom!

Most of us dream of a little downtime. But a new study from Ohio State University has found that even when women get time off from office and household tasks, they don't feel any less rushed. And married moms reported feeling rushed more than twice as often as single women without kids did. (Men, on the other hand, apparently kick back when they've got time off!) To help remedy this: Schedule free time that's not combined with other activities or responsibilities, such as a night out with your husband, an afternoon at the beach or a girlfriends-only brunch date.

Caffeine for Aches?

Caffeine may help prevent sore muscles. Researchers at the University of Georgia had women pop a caffeine pill (about the equivalent of two cups of coffee) before exercising and found that it reduced their postworkout soreness up to 48 percent—even better than other pain relievers such as aspirin and naproxen. Caffeine junkies, whose bodies may be less sensitive to its effect, might not benefit. But if you want to try coffee or tea before a workout, drink a glass of water before or during exercise, since caffeine is dehydrating.

Drink to Your Brain's Health

You may want to snag some of your kid's juice boxes for yourself. Fruit and vegetable juices may reduce your risk of getting Alzheimer's—especially if you're at high risk for the disease, according to a recent study in the American Journal of Medicine. Researchers found that those who drank juices made of fruits and veggies at least three times a week were 76 percent less likely to develop signs of Alzheimer's than those who sipped them less than once a week. Go for a juice that's low in sugar and, of course, actually made from real fruit.

When I need a break...

"For me 'mental health' is about the time and ability to be creative. My
creative outlet is quilting. What that means on most days is that when the
children are settled in for the evening, I get to spend an hour or so at my
quilt frame, stitching happily. Once a month it means I head off to Quilt Guild
meetings and meet with other adults who share my creative pursuits."-

Gail

"When I do get a break, it usually isn't for a whole day, but rather a few
cherished hours. My favorite way to spend that time is scrapbooking. I have a
great group of friends who get together about once a month to work on our books.
It's fun, relaxing, and rewarding to watch your work become something that will
be cherished for years to come."--

Mary Ellen
source- ivillage.com

How to keep sane as a working mom

Mother's day means something special to everyone.
For some busy moms, it means sleeping in; breakfast in bed; no household chores; or good old fashioned family time -- something many moms wish they had more of year 'round.
Forty-four percent of working moms say they'd take a pay cut if it meant they could spend more time with their kids.
That's according to a CareerBuilder.com survey of 1,124 women, employed full-time, with children under the age of 18 living at home.
Don't Miss

Nearly one-in-ten say they would give up ten percent or more of their salary.
Of working moms that are not the sole financial provider, nearly half (49 percent) say they would leave their job if their spouse or significant other made enough money for the family to live comfortably.

Moms are also missing quality time with their kids.
Thirty-two percent of working moms say they spend less than three hours per day with their kids. Nearly a quarter (23 percent) report they have missed three or more significant events in their child's life in the last year and more than a third have missed two or more.
Career moms should keep in mind that compensation isn't the only thing that is negotiable -- you can (and should) negotiate your schedule as well.

As companies face a shrinking pool of qualified labor, retaining top talent has become a key business objective and companies are reshaping their policies. From mother's rooms to flexible work schedules to job sharing to onsite daycare, company-wide initiatives to accommodate and even encourage employees to balance work and family life are becoming commonplace.
According to the survey, nearly four-in-ten working moms say their companies offer flexible work arrangements. Of those who have taken advantage of these arrangements, the vast majority say it has not negatively impacted their career progress.
Follow these tips for how to sell your boss on a more flexible schedule:

1. Have a game plan -- Your recommendation should be presented as a well thought out strategy that demonstrates how you'll be more productive in a flexible work situation. Come with a plan already laid out and show your boss you have thought through the process.

2. Ease into it -- Often companies implement new programs and strategies in stages -- in order to make your plan more palatable to your boss, consider a plan that will gradually work up to your goal.

3. Be prepared and practiced -- Anticipate questions/concerns your boss may raise and determine in advance how you will address these concerns. Also, be prepared to negotiate.
Also, here is a sampling of five of the top 10 companies with innovative policies for working moms, according to Working Mother magazine.

Great idea!

When you get home from a tough day, chocolate and ice cream
are extremely comforting. Recognize and accept this! You know you're not going
to gain weight from one evening's indulgence, so stop acting like you will ‑-
and enjoy some comfort food. I think a bowl of cereal at night can be comfort
food. I also find pasta very soothing. Eat things you don't normally allow
yourself. I'll bring in goodies "for the kids," and it's extremely satisfying to
savor a bit of it myself!

When you get in the mood...

When you get into the mode of being mom and wife and businesswoman, friendships sometimes take a backseat. Well, there's nothing more fun than connecting with girlfriends. Meeting for coffee or drinks or dinner and a good gossip session can be incredibly indulgent. Try doing things you don't often get to do together. Or schedule things you need ‑- like your manicure and pedicure ‑- when your friends need them too. That way, you've taken care of an errand, had some fun and had a chance to cross something off your to-do list. List all of your fun chores, and get your gal pals to join you! -ivillage.com

Children take naps when they get cranky or sleepy-eyed. And that "night out with the boys" seems to do the men in our lives a world of good after a hard week. But what can busy moms do to reenergize?

"For me it is getting a massage -- it is such a wonderful treat and really
helps me recharge for days!"-- Jan
"Two girlfriends and I are
going to a spa overnight. We have already scheduled our massages and facials,
manicures and pedicures. We will enjoy meals that somebody else has cooked and
not have to wash the dishes or worry about cleaning up the spilled milk. We'll
drink a little wine, soak in a hot tub, catch up on girl talk and stay up late
if we want because we can sleep in the next morning!"-- Melissa

source- ivillage.com

Easy Indulgence

When your kids are young, it's hard to go away without them, but if you want to indulge in a mini vacation without really leaving home, try spending one night at a hotel in the city or town you live in. Hire a babysitter, grab your husband and book a room. You're just a phone call away, but you're still indulging yourself and experiencing that two-of-us time you rarely get at home.

Indulge in...

Indulgence: This one is tried and true, but I can't leave it out. If you're
at home and you need a break, take a long bath. For me, it's not about the
bubbles and the scents. The important part is the ability to lock the door and
relax. Also, getting a massage is one of my favorite indulgences. At the start
of my massage, my mind is usually racing with things that are bothering me. Five
or 10 minutes into it, I'm practically sleeping.

source: Liz Lange, ivillage.com

Breastfeeding: Soothes Baby And Mom

Moms, want to lower stress? Try breastfeeding. Newresearch from the McGill-affiliated Douglas Hospital Research Centre inMontreal shows mothers who breastfeed respond less to stressfulsituations than those who bottle-feed their children. These findingssuggest these mothers may be better able to care for their children.

"It has been well established that breast milk is the best source ofnutrition for infants - it is beneficial to their physical and mentaldevelopment," says Claire-Dominique Walker PhD, senior investigator anddirector of the Neuroscience Research Division at the Douglas HospitalResearch Centre. "Our work now shows that there is a reciprocal benefitof breastfeeding to the mothers -- they react less to stressfulsituations.

This means they will focus more on their children and havemore energy for activities such as attending to their infants andproducing milk -- this is an obvious gain for the children."
Walker and her team, including Sonia J. Lupien, PhD, directorof the Douglas' Centre for Studies on Human Stress and graduate studentMai Tu, studied the stress responses of 25 breastfeeding and 25bottle-feeding mothers, having either one baby or several otherchildren. The moms were exposed to different types of stressfulsituations ranging from those considered "emotional or relevant" --watching a video about hurt and lost children, to those considered"non-threatening or non-relevant" -- such as public speaking and mathproblems.

Stress was determined by measuring the levels of cortisol (astress hormone) in their saliva. The preliminary findings show that thebreastfeeding moms had reduced levels of cortisol (indicating lessstress) during the emotional and non-threatening stress situations.This effect also occurred in response to the relevant stressor, but itwas even more pronounced in experienced breastfeeding mothers (i.e.mothers with several children). This indicates an added potentialbenefit of breastfeeding after repeated deliveries."

"This difference in response to relevant and non-relevant stressors isvery interesting," says Tu. "It means that the experiencedbreastfeeding moms filter out the important stressor from theinsignificant one and that bottle-feeding mothers might be less able todo so. Our findings show some of the bottle-feeding moms to be morereactive to stress, which may lead to less than optimal care for theinfant."

"Our study may also have implications for women prone topost-partum depression," adds Walker. "Post-partum stress is a riskfactor for post-partum depression. If we can better understand how thebreastfeeding moms reduce their stress, by filtering daily lifechallenges we may be able to better treat the moms prone to post-partumdepression."

Affiliated to McGill University and the World Health Organisation, theDouglas Hospital Research Centre is one of the largest in the country,with a team of over 60 scientists and clinical researchers and 180post-graduate students. This team is devoted to understanding thecauses of mental disorders -- whether genetic, environmental, culturalor social -- as well as developing diagnostic tools, treatments andprevention methods.

Indulgence #1

Here's the scenario: You've come to the end of a high-stress day. You need to get out of the office and home to the kids. And you need to find time for yourself. What do you do, how do you do it and what's the result?
I think it's really important to get relief. And it can be easy and inexpensive ‑- and sometimes free ‑- to transition from the pressures of work to a relaxing evening at home.
Indulgence #1: Weather permitting, I find it really relaxing to walk home. Get out of the office, take a walk, let your mind wander, be free. Think about things that are in the present. Then think about something fun that's on the horizon. Push yourself to release the pressuring thoughts. Music really helps. After work, I grab my iPod, which is filled with songs that I enjoy. They might be uplifting, peaceful or relaxing. And if you can't walk home, you'll still find that it makes all the difference in the world to simply play some music in the car. It's extremely relaxing ‑- a great transition.
source- ivillage.com

Before you return to work

While you're still on maternity leave, set yourself up for a successful return to work.
Let go of the guilt. Returning to work often poses emotional conflicts for new mothers. But working outside the home doesn't make you a bad mother. And it's OK to look forward to the challenges and interactions of your job. Remind yourself that you're doing what's best for you and your family, and then move on.

Find dependable child care. Consider local child care providers and facilities or make other arrangements for child care, perhaps even before the baby is born. Look for a safe, stimulating environment and qualified caregivers. Trust your instincts when interviewing potential caregivers.

Talk to your boss. Clarify your job duties and schedule so you'll know what's expected of you after your maternity leave. You might ask about flexible hours, telecommuting or working part time.

If you're planning to continue breast-feeding after returning to work, ask your employer to help you find a private room for pumping. Consider buying or renting an electric breast pump that allows you to pump both breasts at once. If timing is a concern, offer alternatives — pumping during your breaks or working from home to make up for the lost time, for example.
Set a return-to-work date.

If you can, go back to work late in the week. That'll make your first week back to work a short one

Keeping my Identity

Parenting can be the strangest, hardest and most fulfilling job you've ever had. There are many exhilirations that come with being a parent. But every coin has a flip side, and one of the rough spots that the moms of Parent Soup wrestle with is the feeling that their personal identity often comes second to their roles of wife, mother, employee, etc., etc. How can you keep a balance between being true to yourself and putting your family first? And are you a horrible mother if you long to spend some "me time?" Here, the wonderful women who frequent Parent Soup talk about how they stay true to themselves in the midst of their family lives.
"I became a stay-at-home mom last summer. My husband takes the kids to my in-laws' weekend place about once every six months so I can rejuvenate. The first time I didn't think the weekend was long enough, but now I miss them by about Saturday afternoon."
"I make it a point to go out with a bunch of friends at least once a month. It is great for finding myself again."
"Take some time out for yourself! I find that my family is happier when I'm happier. If that means taking a little time for myself, then I do it."
"For me, it took going back to college and pursuing something I really wanted. I met people that I got to know not because I'm a mother/wife/housekeeper. I met people who were boring, interesting, young, old and who made me love and appreciate my family more. I was able to do it because my kids were in school themselves. Putting your mind to work is a wonderful feeling!"
"When I start feeling that way, that's when I have to take a shopping trip, girls' night out, or just rent some sappy love story movie that nobody else wants to watch and sit with a big bowl of ice cream!! I've also started some hobbies -- scrapbooking, gardening, playing on the computer -- that are my things and nobody else's! It's also nice to take a vacation by yourself or with a friend. Don't worry, those aren't unusual feelings, I don't think. If they are, then I'm unusual too!" "After being a stay at home mom for 22 years, I still feel like I have an identity of wife, Mom, and of course the picture lady at the school. I have no identity, but I know who I am. I am Me, a sum total of all those things, and the lady who yells at teenagers speeding up and down my street, the lady who will go to church and take care of anything that needs to be taken care of, and the lady who will be there if you want me to be. I guess you might say that I am a well rounded (size 24), loud mouth, mother who put up with nothing without a fight, and a wife of 22 years and a mother to 5 boys. That . . . and I am a force to reckoned with." -ivillage.com

Time-saving tips for working moms

Being a working mom has never been easy. Work stress, family pressures, childcare dilemmas and time management issues can take their toll. As a result, you could find yourself praying for a smoother daily routine. Feeling tempted to quit your job/ career. Looking more unkempt as the days go by.

Giving up or getting frustrated is not the solution. Try our tips to help you juggle all those responsibilities better. Home: Organise and delegate

~ Have a 'clean-up' routine every night before you go to bed, where every family member puts things back in their right place. Even toddlers can help.
Older kids can help put their toys away, fold laundry and make their own bed. This not only saves you time, but also gives them a sense of independence. Praise your kids for their effort and watch them beam.

~ Enlist your hubby's help to set the table and clear it. Shyamala Arya, a 26-year old sales executive from Mumbai, says, "My husband does not mind sharing chores but he needs to be told what exactly to do. More important, he does not want to hear 'Oh no, not like that!' or 'I could have done it better myself!' Men want appreciation." Resist criticising his methods and your husband will be happy to help.

~ Make mornings less hectic by planning ahead. Finish things like packing schoolbags and ironing clothes. Decide what you want to wear to work the next day and keep it ready the night before.

Before you return from work

Decide on a return-to-work date. Discuss with your employer your options for how much time you can take for maternity leave. You might not have the luxury of deciding whether or not to return to work, but you can take as much time as you're allowed. Choose a day that's later in the week to make your first week back to work a short one.

Find dependable child care. The thought of leaving your newborn in someone else's care can be troubling. Finding a reliable child care provider whom you trust can ease your mind considerably. Your child care options range from individual in-home care to a child care center.

Give yourself time to research facilities in your area and to get on waiting lists, if necessary.
Have a talk with your boss. Discuss your job duties and schedule so you'll know what's expected of you when you return. If your workplace offers some flexibility, ask about flexible hours or working from home on occasion. Be prepared to suggest ways of making a more flexible arrangement work.

Once you're back at work
Manage your time and be organized. Combining a job with raising a child demands honed time management and organizational skills. You have a lot of responsibilities, and to make sure they're all attended to — and that you maintain some sense of sanity — set up a system for making sure everything gets done. Too many demands and not enough of you to go around means you may have to let less important matters slide.

Stay connected. Find little ways to stay connected with your baby when you're away from him or her. Plan a daily phone call to see how your baby's doing. Keep some photos on your desk.

Look forward to spending time with your baby that evening.
Make backup plans. There will be days when your baby is sick or your child care center is closed. Be prepared with alternative plans on those days. Check with your employer beforehand about taking time off when your child is sick. Talk with a family member or close friend in advance about filling in if you can't bring your baby to child care.

Accept that you'll feel guilty or sad at times. If you're like a lot of mothers, you'll struggle with feelings of guilt. You might feel sad that you can't spend as much time as you'd like with your baby. These feelings are common, and it might help to discuss them with your friends or other mothers in similar circumstances. Talk to your spouse about how you're feeling. If your sadness or guilty feelings are increasing or overwhelming, mention them to your doctor.
Establish a support system.

Give up trying to do it all yourself. Accept help from your partner, family members and friends. Seek out other working mothers who can offer support as you make the transition back to work.
Take time for yourself. As difficult as this may seem, take time to nurture your own well-being. Taking the baby for a walk is enjoyable for your baby, and it's good exercise for you. Rely on easy-to-prepare meals or a relaxing bath after putting your baby to bed to help ease stress. If you feel less stressed, you'll be able to better enjoy your baby when you're together.
Get as much rest as possible.

You'll have times when you feel so tired you'll wonder how you can do it all. Unfortunately, fatigue goes hand in hand with being a new parent. Try going to bed early one night each week to catch up on sleep. Cut down on unnecessary commitments. Set aside time on weekends to take a nap while your baby is sleeping. The better rested you are, the easier it will be to handle those everyday problems that crop up.

Combining motherhood with work isn't easy. Certainly you'll have days when you won't feel like going to work, especially if your baby is fussy or seems particularly clingy. But as you and your child become used to your schedule, as your baby settles into a routine and as you become more adept at managing multiple demands, you'll learn how to handle these normal ups and downs

7 ways to CHILL OUT

1. Remember how you felt when you fell in love with your partner and allow yourself to recreate that feeling.
2. Write a love letter (to your partner, children, parents, friends...)
3. Treat yourself to a manicure and a pedicure.
4. Rent a great video.
5. Start a gratitude journal and express your thanks on a daily basis.
6. Go to the beach. Delight and bask in the warming rays of the sun.
7. Visit your favorite bookstore (the one with comfortable chairs and a coffee shop) and spend the afternoon.

Moms, let's do this to de-stress

1. Put on your favorite music, turn it up loud and dance.
2. Call your best friend and settle in with a hot cup of tea, for a good long talk.
3. Snuggle up in bed with a good book.
4. Sink into your tub for a long, luxurious soak at the end of the day.
5. Indulge in getting (or giving) a massage.
6. Snack on your favorite "comfort food."

5 ways to nurture yor body and soul!

1. Allow yourself some private time each day, even if it is only a half hour.
2. Take a long walk.
3. Buy a bouquet of flowers for yourself.
4. Begin to develop an intimate circle of friends and family.
5. Turn off the phone and allow your answering machine to pick up your calls.

Nap and Make Love

Don't nap too late in the afternoon, or it may interfere with your sleep at night.
Studies have shown another extra health benefit. People who spent 30 minutes each day napping had one third less heart disease than those who didn't nap.

Make Love
Making love is often overlooked, especially by tired moms, as a great way to relax. Satisfying sex leads to a deep relaxation. If you feel too tired, how about massage?
Touch is a powerful healer.

Meditation Benefits

Meditation reduces your blood pressure, and helps to dramatically reduce your stress level. Meditation or prayer can help bring you back in touch with your spiritual side. It is a very effective method of relaxation, reducing your blood pressure, slowing your breathing, relaxing muscles, and helping to clear your thoughts (resulting in improved concentration.)
To meditate, quiet your mind and allow yourself to focus on one thing, such as your breath, or the flame of a candle. Find a relaxed position where you can remain comfortable. You might try visualizing health and renewal with each inhalation, while you are breathing out all your stress on the exhale. Take in just what you need, and let go of the rest. Bring yourself slowly back, becoming aware of your body and your surroundings, with a sense of peace and renewal.

Sleepy?

Take a Much-Needed Nap

Sleepy?

Find a quiet, comfortable spot and take a short snooze. Allow yourself to really get comfortable.
Even 20 minutes of napping will leave you feeling renewed, focused and more energetic.

Bust Stress with Meditation

MeditateSlow down. Take a 20 minute time-out.
You can meditate at your desk, as well as in a quiet room.
Meditation reduces your blood pressure, and helps to dramatically reduce your stress level. Meditation or prayer can help bring you back in touch with your spiritual side. It is a very effective method of relaxation, reducing your blood pressure, slowing your breathing, relaxing muscles, and helping to clear your thoughts (resulting in improved concentration.)
To meditate, quiet your mind and allow yourself to focus on one thing, such as your breath, or the flame of a candle. Find a relaxed position where you can remain comfortable. You might try visualizing health and renewal with each inhalation, while you are breathing out all your stress on the exhale. Take in just what you need, and let go of the rest. Bring yourself slowly back, becoming aware of your body and your surroundings, with a sense of peace and renewal.

Schedule Your Worry Time, Play, Water Therapy

Have lots of worries and concerns?
Schedule 30 minutes of worry time into your day. Save all your worries for that time.
If worries begin to creep into your thoughts at other times of the day, mentally file them away.
You'll be surprised at how much time this can free up, and how much better you will feel.

Play!
Design a castle
Paint a picture
See how high you can swing.
As adults, we sometimes forget the therapeutic value of play. Play stimulates our imagination, encourages our creativity, boosts our energy, and best of all, is fun.


Try Water Therapy
Let your troubles float away.
Showers and baths are high on the list of best stress relievers. Climb into a warm shower and bath. Make it long and luxurious.
Visualize your cares just going right down the drain.

2 great stress busters

Celebrate Your Friendships
Sit down and indulge in some meaningful conversation with your best friend.
Women find great comfort, support and intimacy in the company of their inner circle of friends.
Friends share not just the triumphs, but the heartbreaking times and the ordinary day-to-day moments that become woven into the fabric of our lives.
"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born."
- Anais Nin

Catch a Few Rays
Grab some sunlight.
Spend some time outdoors each day.
The seasonal slump that can result from inadequate sunlight can cause depression and fatigue.
Even on cloudy days, a walk outside will help to recharge your batteries.

Take care of YOU!

Eating well is one of the basics of self-care. Busy moms often forget to eat or they skip meals and then eat whatever is handy.
Complex carbohydrates (whole grain bread, pasta, fruit) gives long-lasting energy, as do protein foods that are low in fat (like broiled chicken or fish.) Foods that are high in fat can be draining because they take more energy for your body to digest.
Feed your soul.
Take Time for YouAllow yourself time alone. Time where you are focusing on yourself.
Find a place in your house where you can go and find solitude. It might be an entire room, or just one area that you have set aside.
Ask your partner to take the rest of the family out for the morning while you stay home and begin to remember what it's like to be all alone.
Do nothing, sleep, watch a love story that nobody else wants to see, read old letters ... Just enjoy your solitude.
Let the day unfold, totally unscheduled.

Moms, eliminate stress by doing this:

Sing.
Dance.
Let the music soothe your soul.
Laugh
Put on a funny video, sit back, and laugh your way to good health.
A good laugh is a potent stress reliever. Laughing stimulates the body to produce hormones that cause the brain to release stress-reducing endorphins.
Even putting a smile on your face when you aren't feeling so happy causes your body chemistry to change for the better, helping to create within you a happier mood.
Comfort Yourself with Rituals
Turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Rituals are comforting. Begin to introduce rituals into your everyday life.
A ritual can be as simple as sitting down with your partner and sharing your first cup of coffee in the morning.
Savor Good Food
Feeling frazzled?
Foods affect us emotionally. Low-fat, high carbohydrate foods (such as bagels, popcorn, pretzels, rice cakes) trigger brain chemicals that help to soothe us when we are stressed out.

WorkingMom.com is the website for people trying to give 100% on the job and 100% to their family -at the same time. To give 200% day after day, year after year, without burning out from the stress; you will need a miracle.
Fortunately, God is in the business of miracles.
Anyone who tells you otherwise is selling something.

We address both the practical and spiritual needs of working moms with free resources used by thousands of families with a mom in the paid workforce every day.
"Saving You Time, Energy and Money" is the Working Mom motto."Revitalizing the Working Mom" is our mission."Replenishing the Working Mom's Spirit" is our purpose.
WorkingMom.com is visited primarily from people without a religious background. In our first year online, we've shattered stereotypes about: working mothers, religious people, as well as business women. We hope and pray that you enjoy our website, and that when you leave here you feel encouraged and better equipped to meet the challenges of being a busy working mom.

2 More Stress Busters

ExerciseGet moving! We can all benefit from the stress reducing and energy enhancing benefits of moderate exercise in our lives.
It has been found (in hundreds of studies) that exercise is one of the most beneficial stress-reducers around. It can improve blood flow to the brain, increasing the brain's alpha waves (this is associated with calmness and relaxation), reduce blood pressure, decrease muscle tension, and raise endorphin levels.
A flow of endorphins following exercise leaves you with a feeling of well-being. Walking is a great exercise that can be done alone, with your partner, and even with kids in tow.

Enjoy Some Music

Allow your tensions to melt away with the music. Play music that fits your mood.
Sometimes you're in the mood for a relaxing instrumental, while other times, the hard beat of rock n roll will be just what you need.

source- ivillage.com

Quick way to elminate stress

Keep a JournalFind a quiet place and time, and begin your journey within. There are no rules when writing in your journal, except to be honest with yourself. (Lock your journal, if necessary, to maintain the privacy you need to feel totally free to express yourself.)
A journal helps you to process the experiences in your life. Buy a journal that you'll enjoy writing in each day. Invest in an assortment of pens to fit your various moods. You can write about anything that pertains to your life. Write your feelings. Talk about your dreams, your plans for the future, the books you love, your favorite quotes ... Anything that has touched your life.

Join the Club!

Stressed out? Join the club! With a baby to care for, as well as dinners to prepare, a house to clean, emails, cell phones and seemingly endless commutes, it can feel almost impossible to find time in your day to just kick back and relax. And if you do happen to find a few minutes, you're at a loss for what to do.Kicking back and recharging your batteries is just what you need, especially when raising little ones. What's stopping you? Leave your problems behind, for a short while at least, and give yourself permission to take a much needed time-out. by Deb Donovan

MD Gift Ideas from the heart

Moms just want to be acknowledged and thanked for their dedication and hard work. Give the best Mother's Day gift this year.
Mother's Day is a day to appreciate your mom. Appreciation is giving thanks for their love today and in the past. Give your mom, the perfect mother’s day gift that will last a lifetime. Many mothers can remember a memory but not the flowers you purchased ten years or even a year ago. Be creative in your gift and give from the heart.
1) Dreams Come True
Inconspicuously find out some of your mother's dreams and fulfill one. The dream can be as simple as not doing laundry or as daring as skydiving. You can participate in fulfilling the dream or hiring an expert to fulfill her dream. Often moms will put their dreams to the side. What better way to say I Love You than fulfilling a dream that will last a lifetime.
2) Special Memories Book
Create a book of special memories between you and your mom. Use drawings, photographs, and write a paragraph or two of why it was a special memory.
Example: Picture of you and your mom at an amusement park. Under the photo, you write; this is a special memory because we both were scared on the roller coaster and it was funny to see you screaming.
3) Spa Oasis
Create a spa oasis for your mom in her bathroom. The first step is to clean and declutter . Ask her permission because many of us are overprotective of our 5 year old lipsticks. After it is clean, purchase some spa essentials such as luxurious bath towels, soaps, candles, and little trinkets to warm up the space.
4) Date with Your Mom
Make a special date with your mom to have a simple dinner and some conversation. Most moms just want to spend a little time with their sons and daughters talking about their life. This is the time to just let her comments slide off your back if they are negative. This is a day to treat your mom as a friend, keep the conversation to the positives in your and her life.
5) Feng Shui the Home
Hire a Feng Shui Consultant for your mom. Many of us want a change but need a little push. Ask your mom if she wants to change something in her life and give the gift of Feng Shui. Feng Shui has the power to remove the old and stagnant chi and replace it with vibrant and new chi to aid her in achieving her life goals.
6) Mosaic Picture
Find a picture of you and your mom from the past or the present. The picture can be a close up or a scenic picture of you both walking in a forest. Gather all the photos of you and your mom throughout the years. Some examples are your first day of school, your wedding day, and the day she brought you home from the hospital. Create a mosaic picture with all of these photos. Frame the photograph with non glare glass. Each small picture will call upon a memory that will bring a smile to your mom.

by Debbie DeSpirt

How to Become a Work-at-Home Mom

BY Rebecca Garland

Working mothers may have more options than they think when it comes down to office locations. Making the decision to work at home can offer a mom everything she wants.
For many career women, it is a dream to take the job they enjoy and transfer it to where they want to be – at home with family. Some jobs just don’t transfer well, but many others, including ones that may not immediately spring to mind, have options available if company and working mother are willing to make the switch.
Telecommute
The most publicized way of working at home is to take an existing career and simply change offices. The home office replaces the business office, and email and telephone help bridge the gap. These working mothers must often still work during traditional business hours, but with reliable childcare in the home or more limited hours at a day care or school, there is still more time in the day for family. Some companies are willing to allow working moms to stay home a few days a week, which is still better than not having any time to work at home.
Off Hours
Some lines of work are more flexible and do not require standard business hours. These lucky work-at-home moms can spend the day with their children and focus on projects or whatever work is waiting in their in-box during naps and evenings. This leaves little leisure time, but it works for quite a few mothers. The more flexibility a working mother has during the day, the better she is able to manage her many workloads.
Change Departments
If a mother is in a position where she simply can’t take the job home, such as a teacher or manager, she might consider changing departments or taking a lateral move. This decision resides on the mother, but will need permission from an employer as well. Many employers would rather accommodate a working mother than lose her completely, but the mother should approach this decision carefully as it may have a lasting impression on her career ladder potential.
Self-Employment
If all else fails, many mothers leave a traditional place of employment to find a career that is more flexible. Some work-at-home moms host various parties for scrap booking or interior decorating. Others take up a freelance version of an older career. Still others look into working on items such as transcribing records or data entry for companies that can be done on a flexible schedule. This option holds the most flexibility, but it also has the largest risk factors in terms of salary and benefits. There may be no benefits and income can be highly volatile.

Losing weight for the hectic mom

Dieting quickly is complicated. Most diets call for wholesome foods that can’t be found at a drive -in or restaurant. With no stove at the office to whip up something nutritious, working moms must again get creative.

The most obvious solution is left-overs. If a mother managed to find time to create a healthy meal the night before, she should save a bit for lunch the next day. Of course the trick here is finding time the night before. Many working mothers use the weekend as a meal preparation time.

These mothers prepare dishes for the week and put them in the refrigerator or the freezer to have ready as they rush in the door from work every evening. By making five meals on the weekend, there is something healthy for dinner and lunch the next day.

In a tight spot, such as a rushed meal or required lunch meeting, there are other options. The salad is always an optin but be on the lookout for fried toppings or fatty dressings. Consider keeping a bag of precut lettuce, cheese, tomatoes and light dressing at the office to whip up a quick salad for lunch every day.

Losing weight and getting in shape can be done with limited time and energy. The trick is to fit the diet plan in with the already chaotic lifestyle. A bit of planning and creativity can go a long way.

Everyone needs exercise- even moms!

Everyone needs exercise, and most recommendations encourage exercise three to five days a week. Even if a family bike ride and pilates tape fits in on the weekends, exercise shouldn’t take away from family time. Try a family walk in the evenings after dinner or push the little ones in a stroller for an extra work out.

By the end of the day some moms are too weary to even consider exercise. These moms might try using the lunch break at work to sneak away to the gym or starting the day an hour earlier to get in a brisk morning walk or jog. Even two fifteen minute breaks to climb the stairs at the office can help burn necessary calories and offer an energy boost.

A working mother diet

A working moms diet must take into consideration the need for extra energy and the lack of time to exercise. These moms need a plan that fits into their busy lives.
If a working mother needs to lose weight, she may have a hard time doing so, even if she knows the basics – eat less and exercise more. Time and energy often work against her. The working mom already spends time away from her family and isn’t interested in taking away an extra hour every day to visit the gym. The workplace may encourage large meals out or a quick something cooked in the microwave or grabbed through a drive-thru.

Very intersting article. I should try that!

Home Service by:Maureen Fleury

The other day I was reading the newspaper and a stay at home mom wrote to Dear Abby about a service she has started to offer other mothers. This mom had quit work when she started her family and found her niche by accident. By being at home, she found that friends and neighbours started asking her to do favors, such as watching the kids for an hour, driving kids to team practice or dancing lessons or running errands. She did this for a while and then realized that it was beginning to take up a good part of her day. In addition, many of the mothers couldn't reciprocate because they didn't have cars or they were working. Figuring her time and gas were worth something, she started to charge a fee for her services.
A person like this may be just what we need. After reading the newspaper, I started to think of the things a home service like this could do to help working mothers.
You may need someone to drive your children to activities such as Scouts, hobby clubs, swimming lessons, birthday parties, music lessons, church groups, dance lessons, sports games and practices. Some of these activities could be happening when you and your spouse are at work. There's also the chance you have two activities in one evening and it's impossible to be at two places at the same time.
If you have to attend a function after work and you may need a sitter until you or your spouse arrives home. Most daycares have a closing time and you are unable to be there to pick up your child.
You may require someone to pick up the mail and newspapers while you are on vacation. If you have pets, they will need tending. Same with having your plants watered or lawn mowed.
Suppose you havc planned to have your hair cut or have a dental appointment on your day off. It would be nice to have these things done without bringing young children with you. A home service could babysit while you go do these things alone. Even to do some shopping for their birthdays or Christmas, you really don't want them with you. It would spoil the surprise.
Maybe you have purchased furniture or appliances and the delivery can only be done on the days you are at work. A home service could be given a key to your house in order to let in the delivery people. If the delivery is for a small item, you could arrange to have it dropped off at the home of the person doing the home service.
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"OK, books away, it's dinner time," Barrie Silberberg told her two children as they settled down at the table in Silberberg's California town house.
Annsley Rubino, 8, read a few more lines, then put her "1001 Cool Jokes" book down on the chair beside her.

Silberberg placed a steaming dish of garlic curry chicken in the middle of the table next to a cluster of artichokes. She then sat, placed a napkin on her lap and asked her son about his school day.
"We watched 'Finding Nemo' in fourth period," answered Noah Rubino, 11.
"There's a Nancy Drew movie coming out!" volunteered Annsley, munching on an artichoke leaf.
Moments like these are the reason Silberberg insists on being a stay-at-home mom, although it's difficult for a divorced mom.

"It was so vitally important, I was willing to do anything legal to make it work," Silberberg, 46, said. "I am so against day care. Parents need to be raising their children, not a bunch of strangers."
Other moms, such as Linda Baker, 48, believe day care gets a bad rap. Baker and her husband chose to put their three daughters in day care from age 2 until kindergarten so that both parents could work. Baker is vice president of a medical management company. Their oldest daughter is now 17 and her twin sisters are 13.

"We outgrew the house, and to get into something larger meant we would both have to work," Baker said. "The other piece is I like to work. I enjoy having my brain challenged."
That question, to day care or not to day care -- often called the "Mommy Wars" -- continues on the home front.

Whenever it settles into an uneasy truce, more studies and statistics emerge to fan the flames. A study by the National Institutes of Health released in March suggests kids put in day care early in their lives may have more behavior problems later in school.

In April, author Leslie Bennetts' book, "The Feminine Mistake," hit the shelves, pregnant with evidence suggesting that mothers who stay at home are putting both themselves and their children at financial risk.
"Marriage is an economic partnership, but women assume almost all of the economic risk," Bennetts wrote. "If they get divorced 20 years later, the man walks out the door with the family's major asset, which is his career."
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 5.6 million mothers stayed home with their children in 2005, a number that remained steady in 2006. That compares with 1.2 million stay-at-home moms more than a decade ago.

The number of working mothers in America rose for 22 straight years, hitting an all-time high in 1998 with 59 percent of American mothers with infants (under age 1) choosing careers outside the home. That number dropped to 55 percent in 2004, marking the first decline in working mothers with infants since the Census Bureau began recording the information in 1976.
"If a growing proportion of American women is opting out of the labor force, increasing numbers of American women apparently believe that depending on a husband for support remains a viable long-term way of life," Bennetts wrote in her book. "Given the economic, social and actuarial realities of 21st century America, this alone is a stunning fact, albeit one whose significance is almost universally ignored."

Bennetts said she doesn't want to tell moms what to do, she simply wants them to make choices armed with knowledge of the realities of the 21st century, such as widowhood, longer life spans, disappearing pensions, a shaky job market and changing divorce laws.
"Women were making this choice on whether to drop out of the labor force and stay home based on grossly inadequate information and grossly misleading information," said Bennetts, who is a 57-year-old working mother of two who has been married more than 20 years.
Many stay-at-home moms entered angry reviews of the book on Web sites such as Amazon.com.

"She comes off as elitist, condescending, insulting, and ignorant of stay-at-home women in general," was an example of one angry review.
An NIH study led by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill psychology professor Margaret Burchinal showed that children who had been in day care before kindergarten were more likely to have behavior problems by the time they reached the sixth grade.
Working mom Baker said she has nothing but respect for stay-at-home moms but believes she is a better mom when she is keeping her mind vital by working. And her daughters seem to be fine, she said.

Bury your guilt!

Feeling guilty because you let your kids eat junk food for dinner? Because your TV is the babysitter tonight? Because your business meeting is cutting into family time? Let the guilt go! Post your guilty little secret in the Guilt Graveyard - and bury it for good. Then...relax!

Bury your guilt! >>>

source-ivillage.com

Try this, it's about time!

If all you have in your closet are sensible flats, sneakers and boots, it's time to indulge in a pair of "shoes," girlfriend. Not shoes you can wear to the office, the playground or playgroup, but the kind of shoes that say, "Take me out, and show me off!" Head turning shoes. Naughty-girl shoes. Dancing shoes. Strut your stuff shoes. And if you only wear them once a year, that's okay too.

Try this for a change!

I know, I know -- high heels can be hard to walk in (especially when you're carrying a giant diaper bag and, um, another human being), are impractical, can lead to foot pain and back pain and yadda yadda yadda... But c'mon, they look fabulous, and they make your legs look gorgeous.

Get a pet!

Do you ever crave another bundle of joy, but the thought of cleaning up after yet another member of the family makes it seem more like a bundle of a burden? Often, introducing a pet to the household keeps those motherly cravings in check, but if training a dog or cleaning up cat hair isn't exactly for you either, take a noncommittal visit to the pet store. Without fail, pet stores always have front displays of their teensiest miniature terriers, yapping dachshunds and fuzzy tabbies that will keep your attention for hours on end. Then, have a pet store play date by spending some one-on-one time with one lucky furball. At most stores, you can share a room with your would-be pet along with piles of toys and treats for 20 minutes or so. Just leave the cleaning, training and disciplining to someone else: You're there to play. Plus, the animals spend most of their days pent up in cages, so you'll be an indulgence for them as well!

source-ivillage.com

Indulge yourself

If you've ever said, "I can't remember life before [insert name of child/children]," slowly step away from the computer, change out of that "World's Greatest Mom" sweater and get to a newsstand. Today, you will go back to the days when you weren't a mother, and the time machine that will take you there is (drum roll, please) a teen magazine. As frivolous as it sounds, there's nothing you need more than a refresher in all those rites of passage you met as a girl. From stories about first crushes to embarrassing tales about getting your first period in front of said crushes, you'll be surprised how much fun those awkward stages actually were. Better yet, this can be the perfect teen tutorial. Most of these mags unveil the newest trends in music, technology and fashion. You don't have to listen to that new Justin Timberlake song or anything, but knowing about it will at least help you keep up with the Joneses' kids.
-ivillage.com

Admit it, you can't wait to try this!

'Admit it: Sometimes you just want a drink. Reward yourself tonight -- or right now! -- with a custom-made cocktail. If you don't have any fail-proof recipes of your own, use our Recipe Finder to locate every drink in the book, from a Japanese slipper to cranberry cocktails. Playing Drink Doctor can even be a great change of pace for an after-dinner treat or a just-put-the-kids-to-bed nightcap. And at your next soiree, set up a make-your-own margarita bar and go to town. Kidtender by day, bartender by night!'
-ivillage.com
Indulge yourself

Try this tomorrow!

Remember those '50s housewives who were displayed as the symbol of "family values" across America? The June Cleavers and Donna Reeds of the world all feather-dusted the living room, kept the pot roast cooking and had a martini waiting for their hardworking hubbies. Even if you wear the pants, we've got a feeling your husband or significant other isn't donning an apron. How about enlisting him for some friendly role-play where you are the one waited on hand and foot? Well before the Freaky Friday-esque day begins, talk to your partner about the switch and what you'd love for him to do just this once. When you wake up, get ready and get out of the house for the day -- even if you don't work outside the home. Leave whatever chores you normally do for your partner. When it's quitting time, come home to your old ball and chain to find your favorite whipped-from-scratch (or from-the-box... we'll let him slide on that one) meal waiting for you.

Indulge yourself

If you're still wondering if Ross and Rachel ever got together, you've got a serious case of TVD: television deficiency. Sure, there's something to be said for some boob tube detox, but we have a feeling you're too up to date on SpongeBob and friends to be aware of programs that are targeted closer to your own age group. So take some time to watch your TV favorites. Hit the local video store and grab a full season of a series. Whether it's a show you love (The Office), a show you miss (Seinfeld) or a show you've been dying to watch (Nip/Tuck, Gilmore Girls, Lost... okay, there's a lot here you've been missing), you can play catch-up and finally have a clue what all that water-cooler chatter's been about. And what's better than commercial-free TV, especially when any cliffhangers can be solved by simply clicking over to the next episode? If you watch just one or two episodes a day, you'll be done in a few weeks tops.

Play!

Don't you hate when people assume that once you become a mom your mind is nothing more than a storage space for Wiggles lyrics? Well, if you want to prove them wrong, remember that the pen is mightier than the sword. Fight back against the simple-minded-mom stereotype with a crossword puzzle. Scientists around the world advocate these puzzles as a way of exercising the mind and extending the average life span. Doing crosswords is also recommended for those wanting to protect themselves from memory loss and Alzheimer's disease. Even the surgeon general encourages the age-old brain booster for all ages, so get the kids a crossword of their own and play together. See how far you can get without using any outside resources. Then do some sleuthing to fill in the tough terms. After finishing, you can astound your naysayers with sparkling wit and gasp-inducing puns.

Get a massage

We spend so much time pushing our bodies that we forget about flexing our muscles in ways other than lifting the stroller out of the trunk seven times a day. No, we're not telling you to "just relax" for the umpteenth time. Nor are we signing you up for the next yoga class at your local gym -- though that's not a bad idea (cough, cough). This time, we're making you get a massage. A deep-tissue or full-body fixer-upper can cost you a well-rubbed arm and a leg, so do some research on what exactly you want and need in terms of general massage techniques, such as Swedish or Rolfing, before you go. If you're up for a little DIY action, click through some user-friendly tutorials on fast fixes for built-up tension and stress. Then when your partner comes home, bargain for a massage trade-off where you each give each other a back rub.

Managing chores in a large family

Managing the household of a large blended family can be a challenge. Sharing household responsibilities by assigning age appropriate tasks is both helpful and unifying.

When you have a large family, work must be shared when running the home. No single person can or should be responsible for all of the household chores. This includes stay at home parents, you are the only people who have a job 24/7, and you need and deserve help. Chores should be divided equally among the members of the household according to ability. In addition to being helpful working as a team to keep the house in order helps promote unity and personal pride.
As much as your children may object to contributing to the upkeep and general maintenance of the home, doing so builds a sense of community. Working together to the same end promotes a sense of responsibility to one another. It also helps build a feeling of “home” for any family members that are joining an already established household.
No matter how carefully you try to divide chores you will undoubtedly find that your planning will be thought “unfair” by some of your family members. There are ways to help curb this feeling by rotating chores according to ability. Keeping chore charts or chore cards can help keep things organized.
A chart is a simple way of keeping track of who is supposed to be doing what. Simply list the chores that are to be done and the person who is supposed to attend to those chores. As work is completed it is checked off. Chore cards are a little more detailed in nature and can help ensure tasks are done to your satisfaction. Using 3x5 cards list the chore and any special instructions. For example, a card stating “Dishes” may include wiping down the counter and sweeping the floor after a meal. For children who are not yet reading you can paste pictures of the chores onto a card. An example of this could be a picture of a wastebasket that represents trash duties.
Keep in mind that some children have not yet participated in household chores. They will need careful and patient training on tasks you expect them to work on. Don’t be concerned about a job being done to perfection. Learning to do housework well, like anything else, takes practice. Rotate age appropriate tasks regularly and don’t forget to include outdoor chores such as weeding, washing cars, mowing lawns and pool care.
Whether or not to pay allowance to your children is an individual family decision. Some families choose to offer monetary compensation in exchange for children doing chores. Other families believe that contributing to the household duties is part of being a family and no such compensation is offered. Whichever model your family follows, you are not alone, but in good company! Cynthia Peterson

Raising Kids With Good Manners

The time to teach children good manners starts from the time they are old enough to understand simple commands and follow through with them. This is usually between the ages of 18 months and 2 years. In fact, studies have shown that teaching children good manners at an early age will help them develop a better sense of respect for others that will stick with them throughout their entire lives.
On the other hand, if you are interested in teaching your child good manners at an older age, that is just fine, too. Better to learn them later than not at all. Good manners are actions that show others respect. Good manners also help children succeed in life.
So, what are the good manners that children should know? They do not stop with the "please" and "thank you" phrases that are commonly taught. Those are very important, of course, but good manners include any actions that help a child display good behavior. Some include:
Table manners
Telephone manners
Writing Thank You notes
Introducing new people
Learning how to treat older people
Learning how to share
Here are some tips for teaching your child good manners:
Teach one thing at a time. You may have thoughts racing around in your head about what you want to teach your child, but give them time to process one social skill at a time. If you are teaching about good table manners, let your child get the hang of that before moving on to how to write proper thank you notes.
When teaching a skill, keep in mind that your child is learning something new and may not get the hang of it right away. Be ready for mistakes and instead of reprimanding for wrong actions, accept the fact that you may have to go over lessons until your child learns them well. Your patience will go a long way in making your child feel more comfortable with the skills he has been taught.
Remember to be a shining example to your child. If you are telling your child to say "thank you" when receiving a gift, and you do not do the same, you are sending a strong message that maybe manners are just for kids and they are not really all that important. No matter what age we are, adults deserve respect from each other, too. Your child is watching you.
If you need to correct your child for wrong actions, take them aside and quietly explain what they did wrong and how to fix the problem. Never embarrass your child in public or yell at them. This will make your child feel discouraged. Tell him what you want him do, instead of telling him what you don't want him to do. For instance, instead of saying, "Don't eat that cookie off the floor," you may try, "When something drops on the floor, you throw it away."
Of course, if your child has caught onto a particular social skill, praise them for it. Let them know that they have done a good job. This will make future lessons much easier and your child will be more open to go on. Besides, you should feel proud of your child when they have done something right!
When you know that you are heading into a situation where your child will need to use good manners, talk with them about it ahead of time. Explain some instances where they might need to be on their best behavior and what you would expect them to do. There is no need for surprises or pop quizzes. Help your child and this will help build their confidence.
If everyone used good manners, wouldn't the world be a better place? We can start with one child at a time! source-http://christian-parenting.suite101.com/article.cfm/raising_kids_with_good_manners

Rainy day activities for the kids

Diane Laney Fitzpatrick
Use everyday items around the house for entertaining the kids.
Got the rainy-day, my-kids-are-stuck-in-the-house blues? Too miserable outside to even rent videos for your kids to watch? Take a good look inside your house. You can amaze your friends and entertain your children with simple household items, turned into hands-on projects for kids of all ages.
If your kids look at pipe cleaners, construction paper and Popsicle sticks and say, “Been there, done that,” these ideas are for you. You probably have most of the supplies in your house already.

A Roll of Masking Tape and Thou
Playing with masking tape won't hurt your carpet, as long as you use regular, cheap masking tape and your carpet isn’t too fluffy. Move some furniture so you have a big area free to be creative.
House plan: Tape out squares for different rooms, leaving spaces for doorways. It should look like a drawn house plan or a cross-section aerial view of a house. Then put a bunch of play kitchen toys in the “kitchen,” stuffed animals and pillows in the “bedroom,” baby dolls in the “nursery,” and riding toys in the “garage.” Kids love walking in and out of the doorways. Even macho little boys will like this version of playing house.
Hopscotch: Tape out a hopscotch outline and play indoors.
Names and Pictures: Let the kids write their names in block letters with the masking tape. Or let them make shapes or pictures with it.
Bean Bag Toss: Tape out squares of various sizes on the floor. Tape out a strip where your child should stand. Standing on the strip, have him toss a beanbag or Beanie Baby, trying to hit the squares.

Is it a Liquid or a Solid?
It’s neither. And both. Cornstarch is one of the most fascinating things to a child. When mixed with the right amount of water, it changes forms from liquid to solid and back again, depending on if it’s kept moving. Playing with cornstarch will keep your kids fascinated for hours.
Mix together 1 heaping cup of cornstarch with ½ cup water in a plastic container or bowl. Add a few drops of food coloring and stir. Pick the goop up in your hands. While you’re working with it and it’s moving, it’s a solid. Stop moving your hands and it turns back into a liquid. (Mixture will keep in the refrigerator, but only a couple of days. It gets moldy.)

A stylish weekend for moms

by Liz Lange
Before having kids, a "stylish" weekend probably included sleeping late on Saturday, taking in the latest movie or new cultural exhibit, throwing (or going to) a fab party and winding down with a long, leisurely brunch on Sunday. While you may never get back that sleeping-in part, and the "fab" party may involve a trip to Build-a-Bear, family weekends can be as noteworthy as those from your pre-kid days ‑- with a little planning.
I find the key to a good weekend is knowing what we're going to do, and balancing the kids' schedules (those soccer games and birthday parties!) and my own need to relax. I find that if I plan one activity that is fun for all of us, we have something to look forward to and to discuss long afterward. Favorites in my home are trips to the Children's Museum here in New York City (which has an ever-revolving choice of exhibits) or taking a day trip to a new neighborhood or town. Conversely, don't try to book every minute of the weekend: Two overly scheduled days don't make you cool ‑- they make you exhausted. Just hanging out in your pajamas with the kids on a weekend morning is valuable relaxation and bonding time. Turn off the TV, have a leisurely breakfast and read the paper (you: the world news section; them: the comics).

Ways to get kids to help with chores

1. Divide and conquer. When cleaning up an extra cluttered toy room or playroom, divide the room up into sections by running a strip of masking tape on the floor, from wall to wall, sectioning off the room. Assign each child a section to pick up.
2. Create a job jar. For really big jobs (like large playrooms and basements), jot down different jobs on slips of paper, fold them and put them in a jar or cap. Have your children pick a slip and do whatever is on the paper. Vary the jobs to keep it interesting. “Pick up anything Barbie and put it in the Barbie house.” “Clean up the corner between the windows.”
3. Dress for the occasion. Pass out aprons and painter caps and play Maid and Mister Fix-It.
4. Designate a kids’ cleaning day treat, something you all get to do when the chores are done. Run through the sprinkler. Bring out the bubbles. Eat Jello cubes. Drink juice in wine glasses.
5. Play delivery person. Put various things that need to be put away into a large basket with a handle. Have one of your children be the delivery person and put everything in its place.
6. Host a “Folding Party.” Divide laundry onto each child’s chair at the kitchen table. (You can divide up easy pieces to the younger ones, larger pieces to the oldest.) When all the children are finished folding the laundry on their chairs and putting it away, they get to sit down and have refreshments! (One Mom got into the spirit by sending her children invitations to her folding party. Her young son sent an RSVP saying he was very sorry, he couldn’t make it!)
7. Kids love charts! Make a simple chart of different chores and have your kids put a sticker under their name whenever they do a job for you.
8. Don’t forget thank-yous, hugs and praises. Everyone appreciates a pat on the back. They’ll be more willing to help out next time!

5 great ways to get kids to help with chores

1. Get a feather duster. Despite the myriad of cleaning products, a feather duster is all you need to remove dust from your furniture and tables. Given something fluffy, your kids will love to dust for you.
2. Let them spray and wipe. Kids love spray bottles. Let them handle all the counters and surfaces that can be sprayed and wiped with a paper towel. Let them do some easy-to-reach windows, too. You may have to go over them again, but you’ll be surprised how well a child can do windows.
3. Your kids can so put away their clothes! Get different colored bins with handles for your children. As you fold laundry, put clothes in each child’s bin. On their way to bed each night, they can take up their bin and put away their laundry. On their way down each morning, they can bring down the empty bin. (These are a great place to put anything else you find around the house that belongs in your child’s bedroom.)
4. Make a game out of the most boring jobs. Divide up the socks between two children and have them play a “matching game” similar to Go Fish. When they get a match, they can fold the pair together and throw it in the “ocean” pile.
5. Hide a quarter in a cluttered room that your kids will find when the room is cleaned up. Finders keepers with the quarter.
Diane Laney Fitzpatrick

Making the most of your freezer!

The freezer can be an asset to a working mother. Not only can we reduce the number of trips to the supermarket, we can prepare food ahead of time for getting meals on the table quickly and easily. Here are some ways I have tried to maximize the use of my freezer:
Making Extra: While I have all the ingredients available, I double my recipe and freeze the extras. This is good for families who don't want leftovers within days of eating the original meal. It doesn't take a lot of additional work and comes in handy for a quick meal. You can easily cook 8 pieces of chicken rather than 4 or make a super huge pot of soup .
Plan a Cook-A-Thon: I sometimes get ambitious on the weekend and cook up a bunch of dishes specifically for the freezer. I plan my menu and buy the ingredients accordingly. I try to make dishes with similar ingredients, such as ground beef, so I can take advantage of the savings on family packs. You can have spaghetti sauce on one burner and chili on the other with meatloaves in the oven. It never hurts to have some baked goods in the freezer in case you have unexpected company or you have to bring treats for "goody" day at work.
Freeze for Convenience: Not only do I freeze quantities of food for a family meal, I also do single portions. For instance, I will buy a big bag of bagels and freeze half of them in individual wrappings. It also helps prevent the bagels from going stale--which can happen by the time we are reaching the end of the bag. For breakfast, I can take one bagel out of the freezer, defrost it in the microwave and then pop it in the toaster. My teenagers are always hungry so I freeze one or 2 hamburgers in a bag. You can take leftovers and freeze them in single servings for those nights that someone needs to eat ahead of the rest of the family or you happen to be eating alone.
Seasonal Savings: I try to take advantage of fruits & vegetables when they are in season. You can get larger quantities and save money. Green and red peppers can be sliced and frozen on cookie sheets before placing in freezer bags. By doing this, they won't stick together and you can pull out what you need from a resealable freezer bag. If you are only using the freezer compartment in your fridge, you may want to consider buying a chest or upright freezer. The rule of thumb is 5 cubic feet per each family member. In my fridge freezer, I only keep small items that are used often --such as ice cream, coffee beans, popping corn, popsicles, nuts, and single portions of bagels or hamburgers.
I hope I have been able to give you some ideas on the possibilities of using your freezer. With a microwave, it is very easy to defrost food in a short time. It makes me wonder how people years ago managed with just a simple ice box! Maureen Fleury

Five thought-provoking ways to get peace of mind

I love these tips by Teresa Palagano
source-workingmother.com
Old view: After meeting my work demands and my family's needs, I just don't have any time for myself.
Switch to: I have the right to a moment—many moments—all to myself. Just saying that out loud probably makes you feel a pang of guilt. But if you don't take the time to reconnect with yourself, to replenish and renew, you will always feel overextended.

Old view: There's too much to do. I have no time for sleep, and I'm exhausted.
Switch to: Because I work so hard, I need my zzz's. It's easy enough to turn off the TV and get to bed early, but if you have young children you're going to have your share of sleepless nights. Still, there are ways to make sleep a priority. Setting consistent bedtimes for everyone helps. So do regular exercise and relaxing evening routines.

Old view: Keeping my house clean eats up so much of my time.
Switch to: My family room will never be featured in House Beautiful. And that's okay. If you have to choose between hide-and-seek or sweeping, say, "Ready or not, here I come." A spotless kitchen doesn't rank very high with kids; a fun mommy does. But there comes a time when even a fun mom has to scour the kitchen sink. So get creative. Terry Oller, a nurse and mom of two toddlers in Wayne, NJ, sets up cleaning dates with two of her friends. Just like kids trading playdates, they take turns at each other's houses for a top-to-bottom scrub fest. "One mom watches the kids while the rest of us clean," she says. "It gets done fast, and
we all get to do what we like. I find folding clothes therapeutic, so that's usually my job."

Old view: I'm constantly concerned about finances.
Switch to: Success is not defined by the size of my bank account. I'm wealthy in lots of ways.

Old view: I worry I'm not meeting the needs of each of my kids. There just isn't enough of me to go around.
Switch to: I find little ways to make each of my children feel special.Luckily, little moments count as much as big ones, and interacting can be as simple as reading each child his or her own bedtime story at night, letting each take a turn at choosing Tuesday's dinner or making time for their favorite activities, whether bike riding or playing catch.

Meal planning for the time crunched

Meal Planning for the Time Crunched
Maureen Fleury
As a busy mother, I'm always interested in making meal preparation less stressful. Like many other events, I prepare for them. Why do I have difficulty in organizing my meals? Quite often, I find myself scrambling around at 5:00pm, looking in the cupboards, freezer and fridge to see what I can throw together. Sometimes, the process of elimination dictates what I make for supper. For example: I only have one can of mushroom soup and I need two or I can't cook that roast because it won't be ready for 4 hours!
Help is on the way!
In the course Meal Planning for the Time Crunched, Elizabeth Hallgren offers a plethora of practical ideas to suit your situation. She has gone through the experience of toting 2 screaming infants while trying to make a meal. The kids grew into after school team sports and that is when a meal is needed in a hurry.
Elizabeth gets right down to planning your menu, shopping and food preparation (in advance and at mealtime). She is not an advocate of spending long hours in the kitchen. That would be the normal answer offered by some people. It's a matter of planning and working smarter.
You don't have to reinvent your life. You just have to do things a bit different.
I would recommend this course to anybody who wants to change their ways, spend more time doing other things, and enjoy mealtime. Meal preparation can be last minute if you've done most of it in advance. I hope this makes sense. Elizabeth made a lot of sense. Maybe you will discover that too.

Working mother diet-love it!

The Working Mother Diet
Working Moms Must Be Creative to Find a Diet Plan That Works
© Rebecca Garland
A working moms diet must take into consideration the need for extra energy and the lack of time to exercise. These moms need a plan that fits into their busy lives.
Food is energy. A basic science lesson can teach this, but somehow it doesn’t really make sense until a mother begins to see the dire need for food as a source of crucial energy. It’s no secret working mothers lead extremely busy lives. Many of these working mothers have little time to plan fantastic meals or take an hour in the gym. These working mothers need a special diet.
The Diet Plan
If a working mother needs to lose weight, she may have a hard time doing so, even if she knows the basics – eat less and exercise more. Time and energy often work against her. The working mom already spends time away from her family and isn’t interested in taking away an extra hour every day to visit the gym. Moms need energy and often they need energy quickly. The workplace may encourage large meals out or a quick something cooked in the microwave or grabbed through a drive-thru. Neither of these provides the style of fuel moms need. Working moms must get creative to get back into shape.
Exercise
Everyone needs exercise, and most recommendations encourage exercise three to five days a week. Even if a family bike ride and pilates tape fits in on the weekends, there are at least one or two days left that need exercise included. Exercise shouldn’t take away from family time, but it can be done as a family. Try a family walk in the evenings after dinner or push the little ones in a stroller for an extra work out.
By the end of the day some moms are too weary to even consider exercise. These moms might try using the lunch break at work to sneak away to the gym or starting the day an hour earlier to get in a brisk morning walk or jog. Even two fifteen minute breaks to climb the stairs at the office can help burn necessary calories and offer an energy boost. Exercise has amazing properties. Even getting up earlier can become addictive as energy levels rise and muscle begins to replace some of the fat mom has been carrying around since her last pregnancy.
Diet
Dieting quickly is complicated. Most diets call for wholesome foods that can’t be found at a drive in or restaurant. With no stove at the office to whip up something nutritious, working moms must again get creative.
The most obvious solution is left-overs. If a mother managed to find time to create a healthy meal the night before, she should save a bit for lunch the next day. Of course the trick here is finding time the night before. Many working mothers use the weekend as a meal preparation time. These mothers prepare dishes for the week and put them in the refrigerator or the freezer to have ready as they rush in the door from work every evening. By making five meals on the weekend, there is something healthy for dinner and lunch the next day every busy day of the week.
In a tight spot, such as a rushed meal or required lunch meeting, there are other options. The salad is always a working mother’s friend, but she must always be on the lookout for fried toppings or fatty dressings. In fact, many working mothers keep a bag of precut lettuce, cheese, tomatoes and light dressing at the office to whip up a quick salad for lunch every day.
Losing weight and getting in shape can be done with limited time and energy. The trick is to fit the diet plan in with the already chaotic lifestyle. A bit of planning and creativity can go a long way toward a new, healthy mom. source-www.suite101.com

super mom to the rescue!

Hate Cleaning? The “Happy Slob’s” 3-Step Solution
Christina Spence

Children need picking up after soccer practice? Super Mom to the rescue! Dinner needs to get on the table? Once again, Super Mom is there! A task at work that no one else wants to tackle? You already know who will deal with it - you. With the stresses of your day-to-day life, housecleaning is likely the last thing on your mind. And yet, it's hard to ignore, since the proof of it equals a cluttered, messy house - definitely not the happy haven you want your home to be.
Here, then, is a simple 3-step solution to finally solve the hassle of housecleaning. If you're a 'happy slob' like me - just a laid back, fun natured person who'd rather be doing anything but cleaning - then it might be just the solution you've been looking for.
The 3-Step Solution Simplified:
1. Two daily cleaning bursts.What is a cleaning burst? A cleaning burst is an intense burst of cleaning - getting maximum results in minimum time. Try to do one cleaning burst in the morning and one in the evening. You decide how much time you can budget for each burst. Only five minutes? Fine! If you've got twenty, great! Use a timer to keep track, and when it rings, you're done. During your cleaning bursts, stay focused on cleaning - and clean your impact areas first (the areas that people see the most in your home.) Get family involved, even if they only help for a few minutes.
2. One daily Focus Room:The daily focus room is an area where you do more in-depth cleaning. Create a list of focus rooms that includes storage areas. I recommend 10-15 minutes a day in your focus room, but if you don't have that much time, then just spend the time you can afford. If you have more time, then go for it!
3.One weekly Clean-for-All:One day a week, you and the family finish up the rest of the housecleaning that didn't get done during the week, or any larger jobs. Keep track during the week of areas that need more work during your clean-for-all. Assign tasks to all members of the family. Again, set a time budget and use your timer to stick to that budget. Anything that doesn't get done this week will get done next week - so don't stress! Reward everyone for helping out, including yourself.
Why does it work? It's simple, flexible, fast, and keeps you focused on the tasks at hand while you are cleaning. And, it's surprisingly effective - after doing this for only a few days, you'll see a big difference. Just remember: do what you can, and then carry on with your life. Cleaning

Formulas

Cleaning formulas aren't all they're cracked up to be. You'd think, for instance, that anti-bacterial cleaner would be your best friend. If it cleans and kills nasty bacteria, it must be good, right? Wrong-o my friend! In fact, these cleaners can make bacteria more resistant and cause more harm than good in the long run. Plus, the chemicals in many commercial cleaners are dangerous for children and pets.
Natural cleaners are an excellent option - they're easier on you, your family, your wallet, and the environment. Here are two simple ones to get you started...
Very Vinegar Cleaner
A fantastic all-purpose cleaner.
In a clean spray bottle (not a bottle that has contained other chemicals) pour 1 part white vinegar to 3 or 4 parts plain cool tap water. Give the bottle a good shake. This stuff is amazing on glass, mirrors, and all other surfaces in the home. And don't worry, the smell dissipates quickly. If you want to add extra cleaning power, add a few drops of natural liquid soap.
Powder Cleanser Substitute
One ingredient - baking soda.
This will replace any powdered cleanser you usually buy. Baking soda is inexpensive, safe for you and your family, and a lot friendlier to the environment. Plus, it gets sinks, tubs, and tiles really nice and clean.
Cleaning no longer has to be a much-hated chore. Using the Happy Slob's techniques, you can finally clean in less time, while having more fun! Try today - just start with the cleaning bursts, then when you're accustomed to that, add a bit of focus room cleaning. Your home will thank you for the attention!
source-www.suite101.com

Grandparent love!

By: Barbara Turvett
What working mom doesn't know how valuable grandparents are when it comes to the care of her baby! But there's a bonus in the grandparent/tot relationship that's worth promoting—especially during the holidays, when your child may get to spend extra time with extended family. Whether they're close to home or across the country, your parents can give your baby or toddler a wonderful gift: unconditional love without the parameters of everyday interaction, says social psychologist Susan Newman, PhD, author of 13 books, including Little Things Mean a Lot: Creating Happy Memories With Your Grandchildren. "Children form bonds early, so grandparents can show them there are others to love, be comforted by and turn to later in life beyond Mommy, Daddy and caregiver," she says.Another perk: Grandparents are like family glue, offering continuity in a family's history and traditions. "A tradition may begin with the gift your parent gives your baby (that special silver rattle)," says Dr. Newman, "or the first cooking lesson (watch your toddler become the mashed potato king)." And when Grandma sings him the lullaby she once sang to you, a time-honored ritual is transported through the
generations. Later on, she can remind him, "We've done this since you were a baby, and I sang the same song to your mom." Or she may be the first to point out, "I remember the first word I heard you say as a baby. It was 'ball.'"So, Mom, take a break and leave Grandma and the baby together to connect. "Trust your parent or in-law," Dr. Newman suggests. "Let her feed, hold and cuddle him. Put out favorite toys and play a CD so she can hum or sing to him." Worried that her parenting style might not jive with yours? "You don't have to agree about everything," Dr. Newman adds. "Nor do you need to argue about all your differences." Just be clear about things like putting the baby on his back to nap or what his feeding schedule is. You can even show her an article on child safety to help you feel comfortable. More than anything, your baby's grandparent wants to be with him, so she'll most likely respect your wishes. And their time together will bring big benefits to both of them—now and for years to come.
Long-Distance BondingMake it a point to nurture your child's relationship with his grandparents when they're not around on a regular basis, says social psychologist Dr. Susan Newman.Keep photos of the grandparents in prominent positions in your home to remind your toddler that they're important to your family.Send a letter, card or email you write together to Granddad. Or mail your child's painting or a photograph of a block structure he created. It will make your little guy feel important because his grandfather will see this.Talk about your parents at the dinner table—stories of growing up with them, what they're up to now—to give your young child an early sense of familial community

Start getting ready!

Skin-baring season will soon be here, so start prepping now with these beauty tips from Doris Day, MD, a dermatologist in New York City.If you're considering laser hair removal, now's the time to begin, since you need several sessions spaced three to four weeks apart. You may need three to eight appointments, depending on what you're defuzzing. For pretty summer feet and hands, cream nails and cuticles daily and wear polish to help hold in moisture. File only tips of nails—filing the tops can lead to white spots. Tackle breakouts now. Acne can be exacerbated by warm weather, since sweat and bacteria get trapped in pores, causing breakouts. So wash acne-prone areas with a salicylic-acid-based cleanser.
Stress Relief
Feeling tense? Brew yourself a cup of black tea. British researchers recently tested stress-hormone levels of black-tea drinkers versus non-tea drinkers and found that drinking tea may help our bodies recover more quickly from anxiety-inducing situations. "Slow recovery following acute stress has been associated with greater risk of chronic illness such as coronary heart disease," says lead researcher Andrew Steptoe, PhD, a professor of epidemiology and public health at University College London.
BlackBerrys, Treos and other PDAs may be great for your business, but they can be hard on your hands. In fact, chronic injury and pain from all that thumb-scrolling and tiny-keyboard texting have become so common that the American Physical Therapy Association recently included "BlackBerry thumb" in its list of occupational health-related conditions. Typical symptoms include pain, swelling and/or numbness in the thumbs and in the joints of the hand, even tendonitis. Now you can get treated for this condition at many spas, including most North American Hyatt hotels and resorts. The treatments are designed to remove tension from arms, hands, wrists and fingers with hot stones, fragrant oils or both traditional massage and acupressure. Very handy.