Across the Pond

Dining in Monaco
with three Brits
talk of ed
came up as we ate our pomme frites

Teacher said
his kid can't subtract
might not move on
it's just a fact. 

Dad in car
says to son in the back
Let me hear your subtraction.

Intentional errors
Keeps teasing at bay
Son is learning it's not good to be smart.
Better to just be o.k.  

Kids can't be themselves
Even across the pond
Teased for intelligence
Nearly not moving on.

Fear of bullying
outweighs
advancement.

Letters after Death

We went to a funeral a month ago for a man who died after falling from his roof.   I told our friend that he ought to go into the business of funeral planning because it was the most lovely done visitation I've witnessed. Beautiful flowers were arranged in three areas of the funeral home.  Each area represented something of importance to his father-in-law.  They brought in his old ladder, favorite wheel barrow, old fishing buckets.  Each was lovingly planted with flowers, photos and quotes.  It was a great conversation starter for those of us who gathered to celebrate this sweet man's life.

What I really wanted to mention though is the gift he left his wife, children and grandchildren.  About 10 years back, when he was diagnosed with cancer and thought he would die, he purchased a fill in the blank journal and secretly began writing in it.  Upon his death his children found the journal.  As they made difficult decisions as to whether to continue with life support they took cues from what he had written himself.  He also gave them the gift of laughter and the opportunity to smile alongside their grief.  Although my friend never mentioned it, I would bet he would say out of anything his dad left for him, the only thing that really mattered was the journal. 

What a tremendous gift to his children, but also his grandchildren, and great grandchildren who will have the chance to know him through his words.

This is one of my favorite options. 

http://www.amazon.com/Book-Myself--Yourself-Autobiography-Questions/dp/1401303099/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1374167897&sr=1-3

I bought it for my dad years ago and 'hope' he is using it.  The completed journal is the best present he could ever give me! 

Strung out by the string

Did you know Target requires you to show your i.d to buy silly string?

Exfoliation

If you are looking for a quick and inexpensive way to exfoliate your skin, try baking soda and water. 

Put a little baking soda into your hand.
Add a few drops of warm water.
Rub into your face.
Wash off! 

Is Your Child Ready to Stay Home Alone?

Big C took a Stay Home Alone Class through community education in preparation for being allowed to stay home alone.  I highly recommend the class although I was able to find the same materials online.  A parent could do the work at home with the child instead of taking the class. 

Safe at Home Safe Alone

The class is a 4H offering.  Enjoy!  

Bottle vs. Breast

As B-Real was tucking Little c into bed, she looked down at her chest and asked "Did mommy feed me from there?"  B-real said "Do you mean, did mommy breast feed you?  Yes, she did."  Little c looked down at her tiny chest and responded "I think I will feed my babies from bottles!" 

Shop Til Ya Drop (in your pajamas)

Have you checked out http://www.zulily.com/? 

It's a great sight with daily deals for kids, mom, and the home, at up to 70% off retail prices.  

I get excited each morning to see what new offers they have for the day!   I just ordered these

http://www.zulily.com/p/swingaway-driver-organizer-50204-3395113.html?pos=2&e=1&

for our car.  Will it work in keeping our car any cleaner?!

My other new favorite is https://www.groopdealz.com/

Cute, trendy things for your home, kids, and at yourself at budget friendly prices.  


Happy Shopping Friends!!