tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44445588919833588352024-03-13T07:27:48.173-04:00Blessed Mom 24/7"... Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion." Philippians 1:6Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.comBlogger131125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-31808711937008888712011-07-28T08:30:00.000-04:002011-07-28T08:30:00.322-04:00Princesses and Ice CreamI have a confession: sometimes I miss girlie things. You know I love my boys, but sometimes I wish I could buy the cute pink, sparkly things in the stores. So when we decided to donate some school supplies to <a href="http://actogetherministries.org/programs/educational/tools-4-school?utm_content=amyflee%40bellsouth.net&utm_source=VerticalResponse&utm_medium=Email&utm_term=Donate%20School%20Supplies&utm_campaign=The%20Kids%20Need%20Your%20Helpcontent">Act Together Ministries</a>, I secretly saw this as a chance to indulge in cute things. I had no idea it would turn into a great lesson in compassion.<br /><br />So we took the boys to Target with a school supply list in hand. Then I told them we were going to buy supplies for a little girl. They were temporarily thrown off kilter, but it was so great hearing them talk about what "she" would like. Would "she" rather have a backpack with Disney Princesses or cute monkeys? "She" would like the notebook with hearts on it. Can "she" keep all of her supplies in this pink pencil case?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KWOB_HxJuGY/Tizk62xPDCI/AAAAAAAABFo/Pk9shIbPW-s/s1600/IMG_1205.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KWOB_HxJuGY/Tizk62xPDCI/AAAAAAAABFo/Pk9shIbPW-s/s320/IMG_1205.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633128933719215138" border="0" /></a><br />The drop-off location for the supplies was an ice cream shop. Every good deed comes with it's reward, right?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6DrZmHD5LrU/Tizlqj2TuSI/AAAAAAAABF4/-g5LQ3RCUOE/s1600/IMG_1209.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6DrZmHD5LrU/Tizlqj2TuSI/AAAAAAAABF4/-g5LQ3RCUOE/s200/IMG_1209.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633129753273940258" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GDwKjKvPcos/TizlqcnR-MI/AAAAAAAABFw/Q6Fhn86zero/s1600/IMG_1207.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GDwKjKvPcos/TizlqcnR-MI/AAAAAAAABFw/Q6Fhn86zero/s200/IMG_1207.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633129751331862722" border="0" /></a>In the past, when we've shopped for donated items like this, we always went with the mindset of shopping for a boy the same age as Patriot and Azlan. But here, shopping for someone totally different than them, really seemed to build some empathy and compassion. Great surprise!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-43962565194923501512011-07-25T08:30:00.002-04:002011-07-25T08:30:02.080-04:00Food Network Family NightOur family has become major Food Network nerds this summer. We love watching "Food Network Challenge," "Iron Chef," and "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives," but "Food Network Star" is our favorite. I think it's great that the boys are learning how good food is made and understanding about quality ingredients. I wish I was a better cook, so we could experience more of this in our kitchen. But I think Patriot might end up being a pretty decent chef.<br /><br />We had a quiet weekend at home and I dreamed up a Food Network Family Night. Our whole family are big fans of Mexican food, so we looked up some recipes and divided into teams to make dinner.<br /><br />Team Salsa used Giada's <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/spicy-tomato-salsa-recipe/index.html">Spicy Tomato Salsa recipe</a>. We were surprised to find a traditionally Italian chef offering a salsa recipe, and the ingredients peeked our curiosity. We don't have a food processor, so they used a blender—worked fine.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ra6H8Y4dZ4c/TizfIQJEjfI/AAAAAAAABFI/3u8HumCIiuo/s1600/IMG_1198.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ra6H8Y4dZ4c/TizfIQJEjfI/AAAAAAAABFI/3u8HumCIiuo/s320/IMG_1198.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633122566798609906" border="0" /></a><br />Team Guacamole used Alton Brown's <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/guacamole-recipe/index.html">Perfect Guacamole</a><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/guacamole-recipe/index.html"> recipe</a>. This has become my favorite recipe to snack on—I love it! But I only use about 1/4 of the onion it calls for.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P5cwA9i_L8A/TizfIY2w0gI/AAAAAAAABFQ/2pSjXYxLx78/s1600/IMG_1201.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P5cwA9i_L8A/TizfIY2w0gI/AAAAAAAABFQ/2pSjXYxLx78/s320/IMG_1201.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633122569137738242" border="0" /></a><br />We did a taste test, and I have to admit that Team Salsa was the winner. I think that's because of the green color and onion in the guacamole. They can enjoy the salsa—just means more guacamole for me!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lb_GX8RXalQ/TizfIkwtlwI/AAAAAAAABFY/4fOXx9Y6SiY/s1600/IMG_1202.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lb_GX8RXalQ/TizfIkwtlwI/AAAAAAAABFY/4fOXx9Y6SiY/s320/IMG_1202.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633122572333586178" border="0" /></a><br />The boys and I worked together to make these beautiful chicken fajitas. I found a package of stoplight bell peppers, so the boys were able to taste the different colors raw and cooked. They both liked the yellow pepper best. We added some seasoned black beans on the side and had a great meal! (And I had help making dinner!)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WSONV4f2nVc/TizfI1pJgiI/AAAAAAAABFg/RtelzQyk9Bw/s1600/IMG_1203.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WSONV4f2nVc/TizfI1pJgiI/AAAAAAAABFg/RtelzQyk9Bw/s320/IMG_1203.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633122576865264162" border="0" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-47993399349121394752011-07-13T23:01:00.003-04:002011-07-13T23:25:20.733-04:00It's ALWAYS the Parent's ResponsibilityThis news story completely cracks me up. Watch the full video if you have a couple of minutes. The best part is the discussion between the anchors at the end.<br /><br /><img style="visibility: hidden; width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="http://c.gigcount.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEzMTA2MTI*NjQxNTgmcHQ9MTMxMDYxMjQ2OTIxOCZwPTEyNTg*MTEmZD1BQkNOZXdzX1NGUF9Mb2NrZV9FbWJlZF8x/NDA1NzA*MF9SZXN*YXVyYW5*QmFuc1lvdW5nS2lkcyZnPTImbz1iOTk4NGUxOWQ1YzQ*MWU*YjAwMDBjOGZhOTQyYTQ5NCZvZj*w.gif" border="0" height="0" width="0" /><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,124,0" id="ABCESNWID" height="278" width="344"><param name="movie" value="http://abcnews.go.com/assets/player/walt2.6/flash/SFP_Walt_2_65.swf"><param name="quality" value="high"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="allowNetworking" value="all"><param name="flashvars" value="configUrl=http://abcnews.go.com/video/sfp/embedPlayerConfig&configId=406732&clipId=14057040&gig_lt=1310612464158&gig_pt=1310612469218&gig_g=2"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><embed src="http://abcnews.go.com/assets/player/walt2.6/flash/SFP_Walt_2_65.swf" quality="high" allowscriptaccess="always" allownetworking="all" allowfullscreen="true" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/download.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" flashvars="configUrl=http://abcnews.go.com/video/sfp/embedPlayerConfig&configId=406732&clipId=14057040&gig_lt=1310612464158&gig_pt=1310612469218&gig_g=2" name="ABCESNWID" height="278" width="344"></embed></object><br /><br />I'll summarize: restaurant owner is tired of unruly kids in his restaurant and made a policy that kids under 6 are not allowed. Parents are mad because they're "being discriminated against."<br /><br />NEWS FLASH TO PARENTS: If your kids can't sit in a restaurant without disturbing the other patrons, they shouldn't be in the restaurant. These parents should be embarrassed, not insulted.<br /><br />It is the parent's responsibility to address behavior issues in public and teach their children to respect the people around them. I can remember sitting in the lobby of a restaurant (many restaurants, actually) with my misbehaving toddler while the rest of our group enjoyed our dinner. I took responsibility for my child, made myself uncomfortable if necessary, and taught my child how dine in a restaurant.<br /><br />Now, both boys are pretty good at restaurant dining—able to place their own orders politely and color or work puzzles while they wait for their food. We are still working on volume control during the meal, and try to choose loud restaurants until we get a little more self-control in that area. We take responsibility for choosing a restaurant where our children will not disturb other diners.<br /><br />My favorite line in the news story: We understand that your child might be the center of your universe, but he is not the center of THE universe.<br /><br />I might have t-shirts printed with that quote.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-82552302829148539672011-07-09T21:11:00.003-04:002011-07-09T21:23:16.974-04:00When You Wish Upon a StarI hope you can handle one more post about our Disney trip. After this, I'll talk about something else. I promise.<br /><br />Here is our trip in video pics. Please enjoy!<br /><br /><iframe id="vp1ABvK8" title="Video Player" width="432" height="240" frameborder="0" src="http://embed.animoto.com/play.html?w=swf/vp1&e=1310260947&f=ABvK8IQmPVi2aUAmMhxQhA&d=372&m=a&r=240p+480p&volume=100&start_res=480p&i=m&options=" allowfullscreen></iframe><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-23385781505644722952011-06-27T08:09:00.000-04:002011-06-27T08:09:00.186-04:00Newbies at Disney: Back to Reality<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">This is the final post in my series about our first trip to Disney World. I shared what I learned for any other newbie families out there. The Disney experts in my life are </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://houseofhills.org/">Kathy</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> and </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.afrugalfriend.net/">Debra</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, so check in with them if you're looking for info that I don't have here. Comment or find me on Twitter if you have any suggestions or questions.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">After a week at Disney, reentry into the real world can be tough. Both of my kids got sick, with fevers as high as 104. We all took 4-hour naps that weekend. And the piles of laundry were overwhelming. I only have three tips:</span></span><ol><li>Give yourself a couple of days if at all possible. We returned on a Friday, so we still had Saturday and Sunday to recover before work Monday.</li><li>Spend lots of time enjoying your pics. We loaded them all on the computer and started editing them right away to compile them for a photo book. (BTW, when you enter your Photopass number, you might find you're missing a couple of pics. Find the place to submit a request and Disney will look for your missing pics for you! And they found ours! I was so excited!)</li><li>Start planning your next trip to Disney. I predict we have a window of about 5-7 years that our family will be excited about Disney. After that, I'm afraid we'll have outgrown the magic. I intend to take my children to Disney as often as possible while we're in that window.</li></ol><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">Enjoy the Magic!<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wBCLHbISNOU/TggEzG6xYOI/AAAAAAAABFA/NgLfdcKOrCU/s1600/263458500000001.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wBCLHbISNOU/TggEzG6xYOI/AAAAAAAABFA/NgLfdcKOrCU/s400/263458500000001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622749410849022178" border="0" /></a></span></span></span></span><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-49295270161297024372011-06-25T08:00:00.000-04:002011-06-25T08:00:05.007-04:00Newbies at Disney: Cutting Costs<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Our family just returned from our first trip to Disney World and we had a wonderful time! We learned a ton and I researched for hours before we left. Over the next few posts, I want to share what I learned for any other newbie families out there. The Disney experts in my life are </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://houseofhills.org/">Kathy</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> and </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.afrugalfriend.net/">Debra</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, so check in with them if you're looking for info that I don't have here.</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">We are a family that is willing to spend a little money on things that are important to us. Most people probably would not characterize us as "frugal." We like a certain brand of paper towels and won't buy other brands, even if they're on sale. But I do watch for coupons on that brand of paper towel and will buy extras when they're on sale. So we like to save money when we can and on the things that don't matter as much to us. And that's the way we approached our Disney trip.</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3t83CCFod8/TgVIGdEkAcI/AAAAAAAABEo/HCD9u5rH1Yc/s1600/IMG_1485.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 144px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3t83CCFod8/TgVIGdEkAcI/AAAAAAAABEo/HCD9u5rH1Yc/s200/IMG_1485.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621978985562112450" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />We knew that, for our first trip, we wanted to stay in a moderate resor</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">t—not the cheapest, not the most expensive. And we decided it was worth it to upgrade to a pirate-themed room with a water view. So we were willing to spend a little more there. (Fortunately, though, we were able to get a discount on that room thanks to a friend who lives in Orlando. That's my first tip: make friends with people who live in Orlando.)</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />We also knew we wanted to have a handful of really good meals. We are a family of eaters, and we like to eat good food. Plus, we wanted the boys to experience some of the character meals. Those do not come super cheap and there are no coupons. You just have to bite the bullet.<br /><br />So how did we save money? Read below, and please comment with any savings tips of your own.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Food</span><br /></span></span><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VFD7MIe_EIw/TgVIGsPsr5I/AAAAAAAABEw/gSmecvEB0lE/s1600/IMG_1038.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VFD7MIe_EIw/TgVIGsPsr5I/AAAAAAAABEw/gSmecvEB0lE/s200/IMG_1038.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621978989635350418" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Eat breakfast in your room.</span> We have a tradition where the kids get to pick out a sugar cereal to eat on vacation. This is something they look forward to. Plus, everyone's so anxious to get the park, they don't eat a lot anyway. And days with early Extra Magic Hours, you'll leave for the park so early, you might eat in the car on the way. We did Poptarts and bananas that morning. Pack some plastic spoons, put some milk in your room fridge, and use the coffee cups provided, and you've got breakfast.</li><li><span style="font-style: italic;">Brown bag one meal at the park.</span> We packed bread and peanut butter, chips, carrot sticks, and some Oreo's in a gallon-sized baggie for lunch every day. Any counter service place that serves breakfast will have jelly packets with the condiments. And if they serve salads they'll have ranch dressing for you to dip your carrots, but you'll have to ask. You'll be able to put together a nice lunch at no substantial cost.</li><li><span style="font-style: italic;">Ask for cups of ice water.</span> Pretty much everyplace in Disney will give you free cups of ice water. For variety, pack some individual drink mixes and use your straw to stir the mix in. We did Kool-Aid and Propel. You'll avoid drinking too much soda, stay hydrated, and save cash.</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Souvenirs</span><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-68T3-l0UWPw/TgVIHD5bnAI/AAAAAAAABE4/uWs4kzpQN3c/s1600/IMG_1599.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-68T3-l0UWPw/TgVIHD5bnAI/AAAAAAAABE4/uWs4kzpQN3c/s200/IMG_1599.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621978995984407554" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Pick up t-shirts and ponchos before you go.</span> We got t-shirts on sale at the Disney Store and Mickey Mouse ponchos on Amazon.com for significantly less than the same items cost at the parks.</li><li><span style="font-style: italic;">Buy a lot of trading pins on eBay.</span> At the parks, these pins can cost $7-15 each. We got a lot of 50 for $30 and lanyards for $4 each on eBay. Most of them were pins we did not want, but we had so much fun trading them at the parks. The boys collected most of the Club Penguin puffles. Matt collected sports-themed pins. And I found lots of Minnie Mouse. We did each buy a pirate and Star Wars pin to remember the events of our trip.</li><li><span style="font-style: italic;">Give the kids spending money on a gift card.</span> I mentioned this a couple of days ago. The boys have been doing chores to save up money for months. Before we left, we went to the Disney Store and got Disney World gift cards for that amount they'd saved (plus a little from Mom and Dad). This was their free money to spend however they wanted. Our only rule was they couldn't buy something you can get in Target. They kept a list of things they wanted throughout the week, and Matt helped them narrow down and make choices at the end of the week.<br /></li></ul><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-7834057391209213272011-06-24T08:00:00.001-04:002011-06-24T08:00:11.300-04:00Newbies at Disney: Star Wars Weekends<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Our family just returned from our first trip to Disney World and we had a wonderful time! We learned a ton and I researched for hours before we left. Over the next few posts, I want to share what I learned for any other newbie families out there. The Disney experts in my life are </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://houseofhills.org/">Kathy</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> and </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.afrugalfriend.net/">Debra</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, so check in with them if you're looking for info that I don't have here.<br /><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">We scheduled our trip to coincide with Hollywood Studio's annual Star Wars Weekend. I grew up on Star Wars, and the force is strong with my younglings, so we knew we'd enjoy it!</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtAaJgo6l_Q/TgQDYjv2_1I/AAAAAAAABDI/xx41EQQv8RM/s1600/IMG_0921.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 222px; height: 291px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtAaJgo6l_Q/TgQDYjv2_1I/AAAAAAAABDI/xx41EQQv8RM/s320/IMG_0921.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621621955312942930" border="0" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The gate to the park was well-guarded:<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0RxX1DsJub4/TgQDY7__oHI/AAAAAAAABDQ/iaQKLwybb_w/s1600/IMG_0919.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0RxX1DsJub4/TgQDY7__oHI/AAAAAAAABDQ/iaQKLwybb_w/s320/IMG_0919.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621621961823068274" border="0" /></a></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />There were many younglings anxious to demonstrate their saber skills while waiting for Jedi Training:<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFOWje19uWs/TgQDZHUxdPI/AAAAAAAABDY/JiWLPHG4acU/s1600/IMG_0925.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFOWje19uWs/TgQDZHUxdPI/AAAAAAAABDY/JiWLPHG4acU/s320/IMG_0925.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621621964863010034" border="0" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />Our younglings worked hard during Padawan Jedi Training:<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtAaJgo6l_Q/TgQDYjv2_1I/AAAAAAAABDI/xx41EQQv8RM/s1600/IMG_0921.jpg"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></a></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4PXx4bCrjM/TgQDZXvSBcI/AAAAAAAABDg/LoBk98W7lhM/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2011-06-23%2Bat%2B11.02.44%2BPM.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 210px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4PXx4bCrjM/TgQDZXvSBcI/AAAAAAAABDg/LoBk98W7lhM/s320/Screen%2Bshot%2B2011-06-23%2Bat%2B11.02.44%2BPM.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621621969269163458" border="0" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><br />And Padawan Patriot was ready to battle Darth Maul:<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bf0m5stcEzs/TgQDZsBJAbI/AAAAAAAABDo/XyS3fvAm3K0/s1600/IMG_0967.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 289px; height: 278px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bf0m5stcEzs/TgQDZsBJAbI/AAAAAAAABDo/XyS3fvAm3K0/s320/IMG_0967.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621621974712779186" border="0" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />We met many of our Star Wars heroes:<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvfNiQ891z0/TgQIlWu88UI/AAAAAAAABEQ/BAk45RK1AC4/s1600/IMG_1645.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 274px; height: 205px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvfNiQ891z0/TgQIlWu88UI/AAAAAAAABEQ/BAk45RK1AC4/s320/IMG_1645.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621627672715915586" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5DoGTUzS10/TgQIkRGxXxI/AAAAAAAABD4/PQKfbf8C1Lo/s1600/IMG_0993.JPG"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 204px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5DoGTUzS10/TgQIkRGxXxI/AAAAAAAABD4/PQKfbf8C1Lo/s320/IMG_0993.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621627654025338642" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKoJ4UANWcE/TgQIk64zw_I/AAAAAAAABEA/oe_MGU7clh8/s1600/IMG_1616.JPG"> </a><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKoJ4UANWcE/TgQIk64zw_I/AAAAAAAABEA/oe_MGU7clh8/s1600/IMG_1616.JPG"> </a><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKoJ4UANWcE/TgQIk64zw_I/AAAAAAAABEA/oe_MGU7clh8/s1600/IMG_1616.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 273px; height: 206px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKoJ4UANWcE/TgQIk64zw_I/AAAAAAAABEA/oe_MGU7clh8/s320/IMG_1616.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621627665241064434" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4fhFUjs6UWA/TgQIlLK9R5I/AAAAAAAABEI/LzTKrI4N-yo/s1600/IMG_1619.JPG"> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4fhFUjs6UWA/TgQIlLK9R5I/AAAAAAAABEI/LzTKrI4N-yo/s1600/IMG_1619.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 276px; height: 208px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4fhFUjs6UWA/TgQIlLK9R5I/AAAAAAAABEI/LzTKrI4N-yo/s320/IMG_1619.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621627669612152722" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h_LfuDuSSv4/TgQIkBpy22I/AAAAAAAABDw/-W99NCNG1Mk/s1600/IMG_0934.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 355px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h_LfuDuSSv4/TgQIkBpy22I/AAAAAAAABDw/-W99NCNG1Mk/s320/IMG_0934.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621627649877269346" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />We enjoyed a wonderful Star Wars parade, played Padawan Mind Games, rode Star Tours twice, and ended the day dancing at Hyperspace Hoopla:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_Pgcn77NXY/TgQMKLn5xjI/AAAAAAAABEY/uPx1jslD5OY/s1600/IMG_0997.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 226px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_Pgcn77NXY/TgQMKLn5xjI/AAAAAAAABEY/uPx1jslD5OY/s320/IMG_0997.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621631603923600946" border="0" /></a><br />May the force be with you!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bf0m5stcEzs/TgQDZsBJAbI/AAAAAAAABDo/XyS3fvAm3K0/s1600/IMG_0967.jpg"><span><span></span></span></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-90525184400140021822011-06-23T16:25:00.000-04:002011-06-23T16:20:41.316-04:00Newbies at Disney: Navigating the Parks<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Our family just returned from our first trip to Disney World and we had a wonderful time! We learned a ton and I researched for hours before we left. Over the next few posts, I want to share what I learned for any other newbie families out there. The Disney experts in my life are </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://houseofhills.org/">Kathy</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> and </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.afrugalfriend.net/">Debra</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, so check in with them if you're looking for info that I don't have here.<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Walt Disney World is is 42 square miles. It is way bigger than I realized and can be a little overwhelming. You will need to make some decisions to prioritize what's most important to your family.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G_oSSs7Zj_M/TgNPREsVm_I/AAAAAAAABCY/Sc7Ox_ZsSfU/s1600/IMG_0871.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G_oSSs7Zj_M/TgNPREsVm_I/AAAAAAAABCY/Sc7Ox_ZsSfU/s200/IMG_0871.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621423914624588786" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">We decided we wouldn't see everything in this one week. Our first sacrifice was</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> A</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">nimal </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Kingdom. I don't think we even drove by that park, but I really don't know. Our second sacrifice was any ride or attraction that we weren't all tall enough to ride—just no reason to exclu</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">de the littlest McKee. And we learned very early that Disney's 44" is about 1/2" taller tha</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">n the doctor's, so we had to cut some rides we thought we'd hit. Oh, well.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">We also decided to use a Disney touring plan to guide us through the parks. <a href="http://touringplans.com/">TouringPlans.com</a> was recommended to us, and we really liked it. You have to pay to subscribe to it, but it's totally worth it. The accompanying app is called Disney World Lines. It provided plans based on park </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">capacity, kids' ages, and real-time line waits. We knew when to get Fast Passes and when to use them. We never waited more than 20 minutes for anything. It was awesome.<br /><br />Some other quick tips:</span></span><ul><li>Don't miss the opening of Magic Kingdom. There's a show at the gate that really sets the magical tone for the day. I cried. Seriously. For like 10 minutes.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CE8KTtVFVL4/TgNTr1mp5vI/AAAAAAAABDA/LCzDfdaHlrM/s1600/IMG_1674.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CE8KTtVFVL4/TgNTr1mp5vI/AAAAAAAABDA/LCzDfdaHlrM/s200/IMG_1674.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621428772477200114" border="0" /></a></li><li>Make sure you catch the closing show at Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Both were great.</li><li>People kept suggesting we go back to the resort for the afternoon and rest. We didn't. We just planned to watch a show before dinner to give Azlan a chance to nap.</li><li>Let the kids have Disney gift cards with a set amount of spending money for them to buy souvenirs. Help them understand that when the gift card is empty, they're spending is done.</li><li>If you're going to watch any of the parades, get there 10 minutes earlier than you think is early enough. Sit down, have a snack, take turns going to the bathroom, but protect your spot. The electric parade in Magic Kingdom was totally worth the wait.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FiN3foKlG2Y/TgNPSCt_6eI/AAAAAAAABCw/RVXyre1zUcw/s1600/IMG_1056.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FiN3foKlG2Y/TgNPSCt_6eI/AAAAAAAABCw/RVXyre1zUcw/s200/IMG_1056.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621423931274553826" border="0" /></a></li><li>Decide ahead of time what pace your family is going to follow in the park. Will you schedule potty breaks, or take them as needed? Will you pause to take pictures randomly, or stay on task to reach your next attraction? If you're going to be a family that moves at a pretty quick pace, don't invest in pins and autograph books. These diversions will slow you down. But if your family is going to move at a slower pace, trading pins and collecting character autographs were a lot of fun (especially for younger kids).<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--b28JKcQNII/TgNPRj3YUCI/AAAAAAAABCo/Sm4wbE4swxw/s1600/IMG_1053.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--b28JKcQNII/TgNPRj3YUCI/AAAAAAAABCo/Sm4wbE4swxw/s200/IMG_1053.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621423922992402466" border="0" /></a></li><li>Plan a rest day if your trip is more than 3 or 4 days long. You'll need a day that you don't go to the parks. Spend the day at the pool, reading a good book, napping, going to Downtown Disney, or checking out the other great resorts on property. There is plenty to do outside the parks.</li><li>Don't miss Captain EO in Epcot. If you don't know what that show is, you'll be surprised.</li></ul>Disney does a great job reminding you to live the magic and create memories while you're there. But let's be honest, you're kids are only going to remember so much. So take a ton of pictures to remind you of the special moments you had together.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-68497615061106824732011-06-22T08:00:00.002-04:002011-06-22T08:00:23.443-04:00Newbies at Disney: Just For Mom<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Our family just returned from our first trip to Disney World and we had a wonderful time! We learned a ton and I researched for hours before we left. Over the next few posts, I want to share what I learned for any other newbie families out there. The Disney experts in my life are </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://houseofhills.org/">Kathy</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> and </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.afrugalfriend.net/">Debra</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, so check in with them if you're looking for info that I don't have here.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--W8JowaB1_A/Tf_Rhu5SVYI/AAAAAAAABCA/07N9a5fuUsI/s1600/IMG_1533.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--W8JowaB1_A/Tf_Rhu5SVYI/AAAAAAAABCA/07N9a5fuUsI/s320/IMG_1533.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620441237435864450" border="0" /></a></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">You know the old saying "If Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy?" I don't know if that's entirely true, but I do know that my mood can certainly influence the direction of the family. So it's important for me to safeguard my attitude, especially on family trips.<br /><br />Disney World really is magical, but there are some moments that will try a mom's patience. It is worth the effort for Mom to take special steps to keep her mood magical throughout her family's visit.<br /><br />(BTW, I think the concept applies to Dads, too, but some of these specific tips will not apply. You'll see.)</span></span><ol><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shower at night before bed. </span> I assume that if you're savvy enough to log onto the <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uefY8pS51GI/Tf_Uo9rdYwI/AAAAAAAABCI/95TG0bnMFsA/s1600/IMG_1040.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uefY8pS51GI/Tf_Uo9rdYwI/AAAAAAAABCI/95TG0bnMFsA/s200/IMG_1040.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620444660198368002" border="0" /></a>internet and find a blog, you probably don't need my advice on personal hygiene, so don't be insulted by this. But I found that a nice, warm shower after a full day at the parks calmed me spiritually and kept my muscles from stiffening up while I slept. And it's nice to wash the sweat, sunscreen, and general dirt off before bed.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bring along a sleep aid.</span> You will be tired at the end of the day, but you'll also be excited and full of adrenaline, so you might have trouble sleeping. A little Tylenol PM may do you wonders. However, if you're like me and kind of weirded out by sleep medications, try an aromatherapy sleep aid. I have a great <a href="http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2922068&ppg=12&kwCatId=&cm_vc=200">lavender spray</a> that I got from Bath & Body Works that I love.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Take care of your feet.</span> I know there are some hard-core Moms who can wear sneakers everyday for a week. I am not one of them. I wore comfortable shoes, but I had a few other tricks that helped save my feet: <a href="http://www.bandaid.com/our-products/advanced-protection">BAND-AID<sup>®</sup> Friction Block™ Stick</a> and <a href="http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4132477&cm_vc=200">tingling foot cream</a>. Rub the cream on your feet and ankles in the morning, then use the stick on places that might rub. You'll be ready for the day.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pack a small bottle of Woolite.</span> I am not the kind of lady who packs a different bra every day. I tend to travel with my favorite two or three. But after a hot day at the parks, those bras can get a little rank. It's so much nicer to start my day with a fresh, clean bra. So a quick wash with some Woolite during my nightly shower did the trick nicely, thank you.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ltHnxpkAnaY/Tf_VFTtFgXI/AAAAAAAABCQ/TvmD6mNyZrY/s1600/IMG_1557.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ltHnxpkAnaY/Tf_VFTtFgXI/AAAAAAAABCQ/TvmD6mNyZrY/s200/IMG_1557.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620445147147108722" border="0" /></a></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Plan some things you like to do.</span> I am a mom of boys. At Disney, I helped Buzz Lightyear battle Zurg. I cheered for Captain Jack Sparrow and booed Darth Maul. I raced around the Test Track and danced with Phineas and Ferb. The only time I saw a Princess all week was during a parade when she was in front of Captain Hook. But I did talk the boys into riding the Teacups with me. And I did make dinner reservations for Tony's, from Lady and the Tramp. It was my magical vacation, too.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Make coffee arrangements.</span> There is no Starbucks at Disney World. That bears repeating: THERE IS NO STARBUCKS AT DISNEY WORLD. The resorts that host conferences do have espresso bars in the lobby. But if you're not staying at one of those, you're coffee options are the coffee pot in your room and the coffee machines in some of the counter service places in the parks. They did OK in a pinch, but I'll probably take some Via packets next time.</li></ol><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-24641498315733723502011-06-21T08:00:00.001-04:002011-06-21T08:00:04.632-04:00Newbies at Disney: The Backpack<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Our family just returned from our first trip to Disney World and we had a wonderful time! We learned a ton and I researched for hours before we left. Over the next few posts, I want to share what I learned for any other newbie families out there. The Disney experts in my life are </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://houseofhills.org/">Kathy</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> and </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.afrugalfriend.net/">Debra</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, so check in with them if you're looking for info that I don't have here.<br /><br /></span><span><span style="font-size:100%;">Our family's general policy is to travel as light as possible. From the moment I was able to forever set down a diaper bag, I try not to carry extra bags around with me. So I was very resistant to the idea of carrying a backpack around Disney. But the more people I talked with, the more times I heard "make sure you carry this in your backpack." So I gave in and I'm so glad I did.<br /><br />We decided to invest in a decent backpack for this type of thing, and I found ours at the Eddie Bauer outlet for just $20. It is very lightweight, water-resistant, has padded shoulder straps, and a breathable back lining. And I picked the blue one so Matt didn't mind wearing it some. It worked out perfectly. Here's a shot of me wearing the backpack, and meeting Woody & Jessie!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WXdb6_ZDVJ4/Tf6_ZW7XaBI/AAAAAAAABB4/WFjEbhLisi4/s1600/IMG_1541.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WXdb6_ZDVJ4/Tf6_ZW7XaBI/AAAAAAAABB4/WFjEbhLisi4/s320/IMG_1541.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620139827377170450" border="0" /></a><br />What did we carry in our backpack? Well, I'll tell you that Kathy taught me everything I know about packing a Disney backpack, but I chose not to follow all her advice and lived to regret it, so go to <a href="http://houseofhills.org/2010/09/15/works-for-me-wednesday-the-disney-backpack/">her blog for her list</a>. But here's my list:<br /><br />in the front pocket:<br /></span></span></span><ul><li>park map & schedule</li><li>Photopass cards</li><li>my phone</li><li>my lip balm<br /></li><li>couple of extra sandwich-sized baggies<br /></li><li>our lanyards when we got tired of wearing them</li></ul>in the small pocket on top:<br /><ul><li>autograph books and pens</li><li>package of extra pin backs (more about that later)</li></ul>in the big pocket:<br /><ul><li>ponchos for the family (should have had them in gallon-sized baggies, didn't know what to do with them when they got wet)</li><li>water misters<br /></li><li>first aid kit (wipes, hand sanitizer, band aids, wound cleaner, anti-itch spray, Tums, aloe gel, sunscreen)</li><li>hats when the boys got tired of wearing them (or we rode a fast ride)<br /></li><li>snacks in a gallon-sized baggie (frozen grapes, goldfish, portable apple sauce, fruit snacks, granola bars)</li><li>refillable water bottles and individual drink mixes (more about that later)</li><li>lunch in a gallon-sized baggie (more about that later)</li><li>pirate swords and light sabers as needed :-)<br /></li></ul>The main things we missed were an extra pair of dry socks, Tylenol, and some more clean baggies. Otherwise, we had pretty much everything we needed for the day!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-68835900050207689432011-06-20T08:00:00.002-04:002011-06-20T08:00:08.842-04:00Newbies at Disney: Managing Anticipation<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Our family just returned from our first trip to Disney World and we had a wonderful time! We learned a ton and I researched for hours before we left. Over the next few posts, I want to share what I learned for any other newbie families out there. The Disney experts in my life are </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://houseofhills.org/">Kathy</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> and </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.afrugalfriend.net/">Debra</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, so check in with them if you're looking for info that I don't have here.</span></span><br /><br />I'm a planner, so for me, the best part of any major event is the anticipation. Our family's first trip to Disney World is a major event, so we started planning and saving about a year ago. The boys went through stages of anticipation: excitement when we first started talking about it, boredom when it didn't come as soon as they hoped, and even maybe a level of disillusionment. I wanted to make sure they knew the right time to get excited, but I also didn't want to deal with "Is Disney tomorrow?" questions 12 times a day for a month.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T_MZMseRuGE/Tf62d3Y4WLI/AAAAAAAABBo/t7NfvbuDhJE/s1600/IMG_1132.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T_MZMseRuGE/Tf62d3Y4WLI/AAAAAAAABBo/t7NfvbuDhJE/s320/IMG_1132.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620130009205725362" border="0" /></a>So I got this treasure chest on eBay and put it outside the boys' bedroom about 10 days before we left. (We're going through a pirate stage, and reserved a pirate-themed room for the trip, so it fit the theme.) Every morning when they woke up, there was new treasure in their chest. I shopped Disneystore.com, eBay, and the dollar store for their treasure items. The treasure included:<ul><li>pirate swords</li><li>a pirate ship craft kit</li><li>pirate masks<br /></li><li>Disney trivia game</li><li>Mickey Mouse personalized duffel bags (these were on clearance, I was so excited when I found them!)</li><li>Mickey Mouse PJs and t-shirts</li><li>Mickey Mouse rain ponchos</li><li>lanyards & pins (more about that later)</li><li>autograph books and pens<br /></li><li>portable water misters</li><li>first aid kits (I made these more exciting by including pirate stickers for decorating)</li></ul>Some of there were big hits, others were duds. Eh, not everything's going to be a winner. The treasure helped build appropriate excitement, but didn't answer the "when are we leaving" question. So I made this very unprofessional calendar.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k7IwQX9UfIQ/Tf65p-xxYII/AAAAAAAABBw/vqI8lNJYWMU/s1600/IMG_1129.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k7IwQX9UfIQ/Tf65p-xxYII/AAAAAAAABBw/vqI8lNJYWMU/s320/IMG_1129.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620133515882487938" border="0" /></a><br />We had the gold coins left over from the school carnival this year. I added two gold coins each morning and told the boys they could cash in each coin for $1 free spending money at Disney. Azlan really got into collecting his "gold doubloons" and Patriot enjoyed spending them.<br /><br />This was a great way to manage the boys' anticipation and make getting the supplies we needed a little more fun!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-73656332568123671792011-01-27T09:57:00.003-05:002011-01-27T12:53:34.451-05:00Confessions of a Sheep MomI was sent a link to <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704111504576059713528698754.html">this article by the Chinese Tiger Mom</a>. I usually ignore these types of debates, but the link was sent by a family member so I thought I'd read it. I must admit, my initial reaction was "Oh, crap! I really need to step up my parenting or my kids are not going to be able to compete in the marketplace!" I started thinking of science projects, math worksheets, and reading programs. I starting wondering where I could find a piano teacher and considering not signing up for spring soccer.<br /><br />Then I took a breath.<br /><br />And remembered my goal as a parent.<br /><br />My goal as a parent is to introduce my kids to a loving God and show them how to live as He instructs. When I imagine my kids at 20-years-old, I hope they're men who love the Lord, love their neighbors, and turn to Scripture for answers. I hope they embody Godly characteristics and are humble enough to still be learning and growing. I hope they have discovered their God-given strengths and talents and boldly use them to serve God and others.<br /><br />I've heard people joke about there being no "how to" book for raising kids, and the same relative mentioned above pointed out that even the Bible leaves a lot of freedom in the day-to-day practicalities of parenting. But the Bible tells A LOT about how to live, and those same principles apply to my kids as well as they do to me. I can think of no better parenting handbook than the one written by The Creator. So as I encounter issues with my kids, I'm not going to refer to Google, Dr anybody, or even cultural traditions. I'm going see what Scripture teaches and then teach the same.<br /><ul><li>Kids not doing their homework to the best of their ability? Colossians 2:23: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men..."</li><li>Kids having trouble getting along with another kid at school? Matthew 5:44: "But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you..."</li><li>Kids fighting with siblings? Matthew 20:16: ""So the last will be first, and the first will be last." (Try explaining that to a 5 year old!)</li><li>And my personal favorite: Ephesians 6:2-3: "<span class="verse Eph_6_2"><strong></strong>Honor your father and mother—which is the first commandment with a promise—</span><span class="verse Eph_6_3"><strong></strong>so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth."</span></li></ul>From beginning to end, the Bible tells the story of God parenting His children. Sometimes He has to discipline harshly, sometimes He leads lovingly. Often He lays out guidelines for His children to follow, knowing what's best for them, but He gives His children the choice to obey or not. Although I cannot adopt all of God's parenting techniques, I am inspired by His ability to know each of His children well enough to know the best way to teach them.<br /><br />I am a far cry from a Tiger Mom (although I have been known to demonstrate some Momma Bear characteristics occasionally). I'd like to think I'm more of a Sheep Mom, following my Shepherd and leading my kids to do the same.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-64185681833027182982011-01-21T10:51:00.002-05:002011-01-21T11:05:51.531-05:00Things I never Expected to Say, Part 2We got a new dog, then we were literally snowed in the house for 3 days. Some of the words coming out of my mouth have surprised me.<br /><br />1. We don't stand on the Bible. (meant literally, not necessarily figuratively)<br />2. I'll pay you a quarter if you sleep an extra 1/2 hour tomorrow morning.<br />3. You are not allowed to pray again the rest of the day. (don't ask)<br />4. Did you delete an app when you licked my phone?<br />5. Let's use cardboard boxes to sled down the driveway!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-8753779236394782512011-01-10T09:41:00.003-05:002011-01-10T09:48:14.838-05:00Snow CreamThought some of my southern friends might enjoy this recipe -- a gift from the north. If you don't have all the ingredients on-hand today, stick some fresh snow in the freezer until you can get to the grocery.<div><br /></div><div>Happy Snow Day!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Snow Cream</b></div><div>1 cup half & half</div><div>1/2 cup sugar</div><div>1 tsp. of any extract: vanilla, peppermint, almond, orange ...</div><div>Dash of salt</div><div>5 cups fresh snow</div><div><br /></div><div>Mix all ingredients together (don't overmix or the snow will melt) and enjoy!</div><div><br /></div><div>Sprinkles are always fun on top. Try marshmallows, raisins, chocolate chips, coconut, honey, granola, even Cheerios!</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-50189592405243515992010-11-01T15:01:00.002-04:002010-11-02T09:54:42.465-04:00Separation of Church and School<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/TNAW5TfDU4I/AAAAAAAABBA/o4Xli78P3fY/s1600/school-teacher-chalkboard-message-generator.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/TNAW5TfDU4I/AAAAAAAABBA/o4Xli78P3fY/s320/school-teacher-chalkboard-message-generator.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534949115777209218" /></a><br />A couple weeks ago, Patriot had a play date with a girl from his class. Matt went with to chat with her dad. Through their conversation, Matt came to learn this family is Hindu. They began talking about the differences in their faiths and the kids mentioned that their teacher said they aren't allowed to talk about God at school. That caught all the grown-up's attention.<div><br /></div><div>We certainly don't want to start teaching these kindergarteners that their teacher is wrong ... but in this case, she is. We also want to empower our kids to talk openly about their faith and their loving God, even as young as kindergarten. So how do we strike a balance?</div><div><br /></div><div>In this conversation, we started with creating context. We talked about certain times when it might not be appropriate to talk about God in class. For example, if the teacher is in the middle of a spelling lesson, it may not be the best time to bring up God. I figure as long as the kids aren't disruptive with their comments, their teacher cannot be upset when they mention their personal faith. </div><div><br /></div><div>Next, we talked about times when he can respectfully to show his faith. An obvious time is praying before lunch. Patriot loves the idea of silently praying -- and God can hear his prayer in his head! (How cool is God!?!) Another time would be at recess. We role played a few situations like "I'm practicing basketball because God gave me the ability to play ball and I want to do the best I can. This was a little awkward to work out, but I think he understood that he can talk about God in regular conversation at school.</div><div><br /></div><div>Since that talk, Patriot has reported a couple of times he mentioned God at school and didn't get in trouble -- I think he was a little surprised by that! I haven't talked with his teacher about this yet. I'd really like to see Patriot learn to navigate his witness himself. And I'm thrilled he's in a position to start learning that process at such a young age. If he can practice this basic skill now, imagine how powerful he can be as a teenager!</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-84513175445506046592010-10-05T10:30:00.002-04:002010-10-05T11:45:12.547-04:00Parents: The Solution for BullyingI have been shocked and disappointed by the number of bullying tragedies in the last few weeks. There has been college <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/39487404/ns/us_news-life/">cyber-bullying</a>. A <a href="http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/39497339/38735591">dad facing charges</a> for defending his daughter against bus bullies. And a 13-year-old who committed suicide after being <a href="http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/39428164/ns/local_news-houston_tx/">bullied at school</a>. Each of the stories I've heard lately have focused on the victims and talked about how parents and schools need to protect kids from bullies. Although this is true, I don't think it's the solution to the problem.<div><br /></div><div>To solve, or at least improve, the bullying problem, parents need to teach their kids not to be bullies. </div><div><br /></div><div>I know, we all say "My kids would never bully another child!" But every bully has parents, and often those parents don't know their kid is a bully until things get out of hand. So what's a parent to do? Here are my thoughts:</div><div><ol><li>Teach children the importance of others. Instead of landing at "You are special" or "God made and loves you" take it a step further to "God made and loves every person." It's a slight, but important, difference. When you're driving in the car, point out people who look different than you and ask your child if God loves that person. Of course He does! And since God loves that person, that person should be important to us.</li><li>Give your children opportunities to interact with people different than him. Intentionally play sports with kids of a different color. Set up play dates with the kids at school or in the neighborhood whose family practices a different faith than you. In the privacy of your own home talk about how some people are different than us. Some of those differences are designed by God, some of those differences are our choosing, some differences (like handicaps) could be from accidents. Be specific about the same and different characteristics in their new friends. But end the conversation with "Even though they're different than us, does God still love them? Then they should be important to us."</li><li>Teach your kids to respect their bodies, and the bodies of others. Show her pictures or drawings of the skeletal or nervous system. Be amazed together at how our body heals itself when we get a cut or scrape. Wonder at the amazing bodies God created for us. Since our bodies are so wonderful, we need to treat them with respect, which means not hitting, pushing, etc.</li><li>Help your child develop ways to deal with anger. We all have times when we get upset, but we can't allow ourselves to take that anger out on others. Maybe it's as simple as counting to 10. Maybe your child needs a Bible verse to repeat. If he's a particularly physical kid, maybe he needs to hit a pillow or go for a run in the yard to blow off steam -- or sign him up for football to give him a healthy outlet for that physicality. </li></ol><div>These four strategies cannot be taught in one day. They must be a part of the ongoing conversation you're having with your kids. But if more of us can use the time we have with our kids intentionally, we can cut back on the number of bullying victims in this generation.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-17957128577600882552010-09-30T13:31:00.003-04:002010-09-30T14:08:46.737-04:00Less School Work and More Faith WorkNow that Patriot is in full-time school and I've started working outside the home, we've seen a major change in our daily schedule. Of his waking hours, he spends 7 at school, 2 in after-school care, and 3 constructive hours with us as a family (I'm not counting things like brushing teeth and riding the school bus). Part of that constructive time is making and eating breakfast and dinner, and about 45 minutes a day is homework. Yes, homework. In Kindergarten.<div><br /></div><div>I am a big believer in education. I truly believe that learning to learn is a huge factor in future success. Our public school systems may not be perfect, but I think succeeding in public school helps kids learn how to succeed in the world after school. But daily homework in Kindergarten seems like a little much.</div><div><br /></div><div>We had our first teacher conference last week and his teacher said he's doing great. She's giving him extra work in class because he's advancing so quickly in reading and writing. She said he's one of the top kids in his class. Then she handed us a full-page list of EXTRA activities, customized to Patriot's skill level, that we can complete with him at home. In addition to our regular homework.</div><div><br /></div><div>Seriously?</div><div><br /></div><div>In an average week, Patriot spends about 1 hour at church. We try to spend about 15 minutes every morning doing "God Time," a brief devotional that our church sends home each week. We pray together for about 15 seconds before dinner every night. We read a Bible story before bed about 4 times a week. And we say a prayer when we tuck them in at night.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not going to do the math because it would probably make me cry. But his number of minutes spent on school far outweigh the number of minutes we spend on faith-building. And now we're being asked to do more school activities? I am not OK with this.</div><div><br /></div><div>So we've made a change this week. I talked with his day care about doing homework with him before we pick him up. That gives us back those 45 minutes a day. And I've made the conscious decision to not do the extra activities with him. Instead of talking about the difference between a period and an exclamation point, I'm going to talk about Godly virtues like respect or courage (or whatever they're teaching at church that month). Instead of taking time to build his math skills, I'm going to teach him to build his relationships within the family and with friends. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am not going to spend my time doing activities with him that anyone else could do. I am going to use my time with him to teach him the things that only I can teach.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-33892712591273869162010-09-29T08:08:00.006-04:002010-09-29T08:19:38.239-04:00Bringing the 90s into the New MilleniumSo Azlan continues to entertain us with his music. His latest favorite is to "mashup" his favorite songs all into one. BTW, don't judge me when you hear what his favorite songs are ...<br /><br /><object width="350" height="221"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/u7KSyvfUbAU?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/u7KSyvfUbAU?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="350" height="221"></embed></object><br /><br />So that was "Baby" by Justin Bieber, "Battlefield" by Jordin Sparks, "Hey Soul Sister" by Train, all concluded with a rousing rendition of "Space Jam" by Quad City DJs.<br /><br />He did this completely on his own, even his own choreography. Since we took this video, he's started working on a Mashup of his favorite Bibleman songs. Not sure I'll be able to talk Matt into recording that ...<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-68549571449687603682010-09-20T15:48:00.003-04:002010-09-20T16:12:07.498-04:00Green Means Go<a href="http://northpoint.org/">Our church</a> has partnered with a <a href="http://www.faithbridgefostercare.org/">Christian foster care organization</a> to match Christian foster parents, support communities, and kids in need. They announced this partnership several weeks ago at church and I instantly got excited. For years, I've had a heart for families in desperate times and wanted a chance to physically help kids in need. Of course, I started having kids of my own and a baby or toddler's needs became all-encompassing. Maybe this was finally my chance!<br /><br />I attended the orientation class last week and came home ready to sign up, but I knew Matt would be hesitant. We talked through the details and particulars, determining that it really could work (the support system this organization provides is very helpful!). Seemed like the biggest hurdle is fitting another kid in my car. We agreed that we should sleep on it and not make any decisions for a couple of days.<br /><br />I woke up the next day and drove to work feeling certain I had an answer from God. But it wasn't the answer I expected, so I argued with Him a little bit. But arguing with God rarely nets anything but frustration, so I quickly abandoned that effort and accepted God's answer -- even though I still don't understand it. Matt and I talked and, fortunately, he was hearing the same thing from God: wait.<br /><br />We've always taught the kids that God gives one of three answers to our requests: yes, no, or wait. "Wait" might be the hardest answer to hear. I feel ready to help these kids. I feel like our family could really make a difference. I feel like Matt and I are right now uniquely situated to invest in a child more deeply that we could as children's pastor. I feel like this could be why God has me right here. But God clearly said "not right now."<br /><br />So, for now, I'll sign up for one of the support communities and help where I can. And I'll wait for God's green light to make a difference.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-12930769137004452632010-09-15T14:51:00.006-04:002010-09-15T16:15:36.631-04:00In case you needed to smile todayAzlan has really warmed up to his little day care class. He talks about his "best friends" in the class and, together, they have planned his entire birthday party already (two months early). He brings home drawings of dinosaurs and roller coasters. And he learns a bunch of new songs. <div><br /></div><div>This one totally makes me smile.</div><br /><br /><object width="360" height="227"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NcCkCzZV8Pw?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NcCkCzZV8Pw?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="360" height="227"></embed></object><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-81863370884523085062010-09-08T13:29:00.002-04:002010-09-08T13:58:24.144-04:00Age is Just a Number, Right?A couple of months ago I noticed a misshapen, pale brown spot form on my forehead. The spot looked like I'd just missed the middle of my forehead during my daily sunscreen application. I was able to blend it with makeup and didn't think much about it. But when it didn't go away after a few days, I decided to see a dermatologist covered by our insurance. This is what he said: "As the pigment in our skin ages, it begins to react differently with our hormones and the sun, and some discoloration may appear."<div><br /></div><div>What a minute! My pigment is aging!?! I. Am. Not. That. Old, Right?</div><div><br /></div><div>But when a medical doctor tells me I'm getting old, I feel the need to take a moments pause and consider my life. I do need a coffee IV to get started in the morning. I do get up pre-dawn and like it. I do think the music at church is sometimes too loud. I do think the kids getting driver's licenses are getting younger each year. I do start sentences with "when I was a kid." I do enjoy bird-watching. I do . . . </div><div><br /></div><div>. . . think I might be getting old. Or, am I just getting comfortable with myself? I feel like I'm entering a season where I'm accepting who I am, recognizing my strengths, and gaining confidence in my abilities. I've lived long enough to learn who God made me to be. I've had enough life experience to learn what I'm made of, what I can handle and what I can't handle. </div><div><br /></div><div>Most people probably come into this sense of self at about 17 years old. It's taken me almost twice as long. But with my years has come an acceptance of my weaknesses as well. I know I will never be perfect, and I'm OK with that. </div><div><br /></div><div>But I will use the skin bleaching cream the dermatologist gave me -- doesn't hurt to erase some flaws.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-74941381352376255092010-09-03T14:22:00.006-04:002010-09-07T08:21:35.097-04:00Everything I Need to Know about Life<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/TIYtEG-1z4I/AAAAAAAABAQ/kxIidX04OPw/s1600/IMG_1056.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/TIYtEG-1z4I/AAAAAAAABAQ/kxIidX04OPw/s320/IMG_1056.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514144342378663810" border="0" /></a><br />Patriot started public kindergarten two weeks ago. Here's a <a href="http://mattmckee.posterous.com/patriot-gets-on-the-bus-for-the-first-time">link to video</a> of him getting on the bus. Since school started, I've learned a few things like:<br /><ol><li>never show up to a PTA function without your checkbook</li><li>the school supply list is not comprehensive, you will need more stuff</li><li>discuss rules for sharing DS games before the first day</li><li>it's OK for the bus to be late to the bus stop, but not for us to be late<br /></li></ol>I've also had a few conversations with Patriot that I hadn't anticipated. At dinner after the third day of school, Patriot casually asked me, "Mom, when are you and Daddy going to break up and marry other people?" I assured him that his family was secure, but I was a little stunned he had already noticed such a difference with other families. After thinking for a bit, I realized we haven't had much divorce/remarriage in our immediate circle of influence, so I guess we've just not talked about it.<br /><br />People keep asking me how I'm doing with him starting school. Of course, I miss him during the day and pray often for his safety, but the most shocking thing is sending him out into the world without me. I'm used to being the protective cushion that guards him from concepts and experiences I deem inappropriate. I'm used to being the filter through which he experiences life. Suddenly, he has to create his own filter.<br /><br />Fortunately, he's really good about telling me things when I ask the right questions. So our ride home tends to be filled with a question/answer that eventually leads us to conversations like the one about step-parents. Listening to how he views the world and helping him start to develop his filter has been the greatest joy of the last few weeks.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-25592974965037817682010-09-02T21:44:00.003-04:002010-09-02T21:59:36.744-04:00The More Things Change, The More They Stay the Same<div>Since the last time I blogged, nearly everything has changed. Matt has changed careers. We've moved to the Atlanta area. We've joined a different church. Patriot has started elementary school. I've gone back to full-time work outside the home. Azlan has started full-time preschool. Just thinking about all this change makes me tired.</div><div><br /></div><div>Even though so much has changed, many things remained the same. The four of us are still together. We are still a healthy bunch. Matt still likes his phone. Patriot still likes computer games. Azlan still tells jokes. Toodles still pees on the floor. </div><div><br /></div><div>And ... I am still a very blessed mom.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-72822513789760119352010-04-10T18:24:00.004-04:002010-04-10T19:15:57.792-04:00Green Mom: Rechargeable Batteries<span style="font-style: italic;">Over the past several years, I've adopted one new green habit each Earth Day. With the 40th anniversary of Earth Day on April 22, I'd like to share so</span><span style="font-style: italic;">me of the things that have helped me reduce my family's impact on the Earth, improve our health, and save money. Hopefully you'll find one that you can add to your family's routine.<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S8EBbUn_n0I/AAAAAAAABAA/clonam3zA1s/s1600/rechargeable-batteries.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 148px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S8EBbUn_n0I/AAAAAAAABAA/clonam3zA1s/s200/rechargeable-batteries.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458645792254304066" border="0" /></a>If your family is anything like mine, you go through AA batteries like it's your job. About 3 billion alkaline batteries are sold in the US every year, and the average person throws away 8 a year (totalling 84,000 tons). Statistically our family should throw away 32 batteries in a year. Between toys and electronics, I think that number is dreadfully low. I would estimate we spent about $100/year on AA batteries, even shopping sales and using coupons.<br /><br />Having grown weary of buying batteries, and hearing reports about the dangers of mercury and other toxins leaking into landfills through crushed or degrading battery casing, I decided to invest in rechargeable batteries. It has been a worthwhile, but slow, transition, so let me tell you what I've learned.<br /><br />1. Prepare for an investment. Plan to buy one pack of rechargeable batteries every month until you have enough to power your household (plus a few extra in reserve). Often you can find coupons in the Sunday paper, so watch for those.<br /><br />2. Wean yourself off regular batteries slowly. Buy a pack of regular batteries to have as backup while you build your supply of rechargeables. Heaven knows you don't want a dead Wii controller while you wait for the batteries to charge.<br /><br />3. If you have a battery store nearby, like <a href="http://www.batteriesplus.com/">BatteriesPlus</a> or <a href="http://www.radioshack.com/home/index.jsp">Radio Shack</a>, go there to get your charger. They'll be able to help you choose the best one. If you don't have a battery store nearby, most battery companies have chargers. Just pick the one you like best. Due to poor planning and lack of communication, we have 3 chargers: Radio Shack, Duracell, and Energizer. My favorite is the Radio Shack because it charges in 2 hours, adjusts to charge AA and AAA batteries, and has a cord.<br /><br />4. Choose one brand of battery and stick with it. Different brands can be fractionally different lengths and hold their charge differently. If you choose one, you'll be able to develop consistency. I like the Duracell because they often have coupons and it's easy for me to remember the copper top. (Sometimes I loose my mind in the grocery store and need visual reminders of what to buy.) BTW, some batteries come "precharged" while others need to be charged before you can use them. Read the package so you aren't caught unprepared.<br /><br />5. Get in the habit of charging batteries as soon as you discover they've gone dead. Then keep a small container of charged batteries ready for when the camera goes dead in the middle of a birthday party (not that I've learned that the hard way ...).<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4444558891983358835.post-77844490494323082572010-04-04T21:18:00.008-04:002010-04-05T08:50:55.942-04:00Easter 2010<div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(255, 255, 51);"><span style="font-size:180%;">Happy Easter from the McKees!<br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 255, 153);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">We pray you each celebrated our risen Savior today.</span><br /><br /></span></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k_qEUYxNI/AAAAAAAAA_w/T0Iyan2QqhY/s1600/IMG_0130.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k_qEUYxNI/AAAAAAAAA_w/T0Iyan2QqhY/s400/IMG_0130.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456462415482373330" border="0" /></a><br />The Easter Bunny came while we were at church!<br /><object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/99OIW5bMRCs&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/99OIW5bMRCs&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="640"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />The Great Hunt of 2010: Patriot - 5 yo, Azlan - 3 yo, Caedmon - 3 yo, Chloe - 1 yo<br /><br />In pictures . . .<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k8-VT1jTI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/U9e1g0vG87Q/s1600/IMG_0120.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k8-VT1jTI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/U9e1g0vG87Q/s200/IMG_0120.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456459465105968434" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k8_Pcq3_I/AAAAAAAAA_Y/c5YfIe4fJAM/s1600/IMG_0114_2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k8_Pcq3_I/AAAAAAAAA_Y/c5YfIe4fJAM/s200/IMG_0114_2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456459480712273906" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k8_izXDyI/AAAAAAAAA_g/U6HHL7GP1Uw/s1600/IMG_0124.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k8_izXDyI/AAAAAAAAA_g/U6HHL7GP1Uw/s200/IMG_0124.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456459485907717922" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k9AFCX2fI/AAAAAAAAA_o/Ecy9T9kgaPw/s1600/IMG_0136.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OedACqce9q0/S7k9AFCX2fI/AAAAAAAAA_o/Ecy9T9kgaPw/s200/IMG_0136.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456459495097489906" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />And in video . . .<br /><object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/m54Wb6C-ylM&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/m54Wb6C-ylM&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="640"></embed></object><div class="blogger-post-footer">Jessica McKee
Blessed Mom 24/7</div>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00729514185619837257noreply@blogger.com2