Beyond Bringing Up Boys

I have learned so much by listening to and observing what works for other moms. A great site that I read most of the time -- especially Wednesdays -- is What Works For Me Wednesdays, at Rocks In My Dryer . It gives many great ideas. I always feel like I need to be tutored rather than tutor but thought I might chime in a time or two when something that I use is really helpful! I use a Family Organizer by Amy Knapp . I started using this particular organizer in July 2006, and I LOVE it! The planner lasts for 18 months. Desperate to begin planning for 2008, I picked one up yesterday (you may puchase them at Wal-Mart for $10.86). Our family has a relatively simple schedule, but when I add in doctor appointments, basketball practice, speech therapy, etc., I simply cannot remember it all! This really helps me stay on track PLUS it has a menu column beside each day. When I plan my week, I can plan my menu around the plans of the day. For example, if I know that I have an appointment, Sam...

A few weeks ago, my sister and I went on a trip together just the two of us. I would tell you where but I haven’t told my kids because well, “normal” parents just wouldn’t go THERE without their kids…but then there’s Carole and me and …well, that’s all I’ll say about that. I will say that it involved riding roller coasters, which I learned that I HATE! We began with a non-coaster ride where I sat in the front of a two-seat car. It circled but dipped and dropped –at my control. I loved it! And so we moved on. We stood in lines and I read the warnings. I alway s read the warnings. Guests should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, heart, back, or neck problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. Expectant mothers should not ride. This ride has a height requirement of 40 inches. I considered, “Well, I have high blood pressure, back problems, neck problems, and I get motion sickness. But I am not pregnant and I am taller tha...