Everyone is Talking
About the Canadian wildfires.
Why do I care?
It’s a story that crosses borders and is a testament to the human spirit in spite of such pure devastation.
Tell me more.
Over 88,000 people have had to flee their homes in Fort McMurry Canada because of the fires that are raging out of control. In spite of this tragedy, the stories being reported are of hope and help. People who left their homes often had to make split second decisions as to what to take, and what to leave behind. Evacuations stories include running out of fuel and good Samaritans, and how people are remaining positive and staying the course. It is a real testament to the power of community and resiliency.
Reports on Sunday showed better control of the fires than in the previous week, which had the community feeling more optimistic. Some residents however, are beginning to consider relocation to surrounding areas with the uncertainty of McMurry’s future in mind.
The Kids are Alright
The good news is, teen birth rates are at an all time low. The bad news is, it seems, in spite of that, our teens are being educated even less than they once were about STD’s, birth control or even how to say no to sex prior to having had sex for the first time, according to a recent study. So, how does a parent teach their child to say ‘no’ to sex when many of them truly aren’t ready? A piece in Family Circle offered up really useful role play scenarios that you can use with your teens to teach them smart ways for saying no. We love how it offers concrete ways to fend off sexual pressures from their peers and their boyfriends/girlfriends. We can’t forget to give them the tools for how to say no when they aren’t ready, in addition to telling them all about the logistics, no? There’s the emotional, the physical and the practical part of the birds and bees talk. AND, we’re pretty sure we’re still probably forgetting something else in there somewhere.
It’s no wonder we drink.
Hack it Up
Mom hacks for whining? Yes, please! We love finding clever strategies for dealing with whining. If you’re anything like us, you have to switch it up from time to time so having an arsenal is ideal. According to Parenting, each age and stage has it’s own strategy that works. Some suggestions include modeling their behavior back at them, finding a distraction, or even recording them in the act to show them how they sound. Kids through preschool age have a low tolerance for frustration, but clever tricks can be a great way to diffuse the tension. We love one suggestion of telling a child to, ‘go pour out your whine, and bring back your regular voice.’ which will usually bring a smile or giggle and a happier tone.
Triggers for most ages include being tired and hungry. Hanger is real you guys, don’t test fate by taking your kids out close to nap or lunchtime. That’s why you should, consider why your child may be whining. There’s usually a reason and a way we may be able to head it off. Sure, sometimes they’re simply whining because it works, but, sometimes, there is more to the story. At a minimum, throw some goldfish their way to see if that solves the issue before putting them in the whining chair.
Menu Planning Mastery
Eating out is not something that keeps the ol’ budget in check and, even if you’re up for the splurge, your favorite place might be closed on a day when you want to indulge. For example, if you crave Chick-fil-A nuggets on a Sunday, you have to wait until Monday to enjoy. We’ve got you covered. You can now attempt to make their famous nuggets at home! We found just the recipe for you. What surprised us the most about the key ingredient was the pickle juice, who knew?
Don’t forget the the Chick-fil-A Sauce to go with the nuggets.
Parting Thought
Waiting for perfect is never as smart as making progress. We big puffy heart this quote from Seth Godin. #thatisall
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