Encouraging Independence in Toddlers

Our toddlers love to help out around the house. They are always trying to do what they see mommy and daddy do. We encourage them to help in the kitchen with making dinner and allow them to take their own plate to the sink. They like to help gather the laundry and see if they can throw it high enough to get into the washing machine. Our 19 month old gets her own wipes and diaper and brings them to me when she needs to be changed. Our 3 year old makes her bed and empties the small trash cans when asked.
I encourage the girls to help me do tasks and give them praise when they have done a job. We never make them do anything, but they love the independence and praise we give them for each task. Even though it is easier to do things around the house yourself, if you take the time to teach your children how to do things they will love the independence and be excited that you are incorporating them into your daily routine.

Encouraging my children to become independent Works for Me!

-Robin

Reading the Bible in 90 Days

My husband and I just finished reading the Bible in 90 days! This is a great way to read all the way through the Bible. The reading requirement is twelve pages each day. It might seem like a lot to read and keep up with, but if you stay disciplined, you can do it. We found that it was fun to share the reading with a partner. Also, having a partner gives you someone to discuss the reading with. Our whole church went through this reading journey together and the ministers patterned their sermons by the reading. With the whole church going through the program at the same time, I found that it was easier to continue reading on busy days when it was hard to find the time to read twelve pages.

Reading the Bible in 90 days Worked for Me. I would encourage your Sunday School class or small group to try it.

-Robin

Happy Sunday!

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139: 23-24 NIV

Christmas Cookies

One of our favorite things to do around Christmas time is to make cookies and candy. This year, since the girls are old enough to enjoy a cookie making day, I thought it would be fun to make sugar cookies, so that they could decorate them. We bought Christmas cookie cutters and went to work baking cookies. The girls enjoyed making the cookie dough, cutting out the shapes, and then decorating the cookies. We had a fun filled day. I love making Christmas cookies with the kids!

-Robin

Happy Sunday!

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5 NIV

Thrifty Thursday: Gingerbread Men

One of my favorite family activities during the Christmas season is baking cookies with my family. Last night, my husband, daughters, and I continued with our Christmas cookie tradition. We have never made gingerbread men before, but the girls really liked learning how to use the cookie cutters, watching them bake, and decorating them. It is so fun to see the girl's eyes light up as they learn something new.

Here is the gingerbread cookie recipe we used.

Making Christmas cookies is a fun and inexpensive family activity. For more great holiday treat recipes, check out the Izzie, Mac, & Me Blog.

-Robin

Do you have a thirfty idea to share with us? Find our how here.

Happy Sunday!

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transfromed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV