Fits, Fussin' and Fightin'...

I thought I would break my hiatus with a Works for Me Wednesday post.

Who: your little buggers

What: designate a "Child of the Week"

When: any time 2 or more are involved in a dispute or a turn needs to be taken

Where: anywhere and everywhere

Why: I have precious little brain power and I don't need to waste it trying to remember who's turn it is to pick the movie or the Slush flavor during Happy Hour at Sonic. It decreases not only the number of fits, fights and fusses but the length of them regarding whose turn it is or pushing to be first or any number of things that my kids want to fight over.

How: assign a week to a child and rotate it. Choose alphabetically or chronologically or just start with the one that didn't ask to be first. I put Post It notes on a Monday to show the kids which week is theirs.

What for: attempt to save your sanity and it makes the little buggers feel special

If there is a choice to be made, I will ask the child. For example, the child may choose where we go out for lunch or they may choose the game. They may go first or run an errand with me. I also use this week to assign the not-so-fun chore(s) to the child.

This is NOT an original idea of mine. A very wise homeschooling friend of mine with 4 kiddos made this suggestion a looooooonnnnnggg time ago. I finally implemented it. It has been really great! The little buggers even count down the days until it is their turn.

Maybe this idea will help cut down on the squabbles in your house... For more great ideas head on over to Rocks in My Dryer.

WFMW- Over the door organizer ideas...

I am always scouring magazines, books and other media sources for inexpensive (read cheap) ideas for streamlining our life. As a result I came across an idea to use over the door shoe pockets as an organizer for small items.

One is hooked on the back of my pantry door and it holds mostly medicines, dosage cups, tape, Swiffer refills and occasional art supplies. I like the high pockets because not only can I see what is in there but also the little buggers cannot reach it.

The other pocket in on the door out to the garage. I use it for things I might want to grab on the way out the door--seasonal items like umbrellas, hats, and mittens. BestBug, my friend, uses hers inside the coat closet for hats and outdoor items. You could use it for toiletry items in a bathroom closet, toys in a kid's room, art supplies or as a general catch-all for things needing a home.

I originally purchased one at the Container Store but the second one I purchased at Walmart or Target and I am perfectly happy with it.

Got any favorite organizing tricks of your own?

Head on over to Shannon for other great tips and ideas at Rocks in my Dryer.

Works-For-Me-Wednesday-- Doctor and Mom quotes...

What works for me this week is my pediatrician. I have been blessed to find a doctor that I like and respect. He takes my concerns seriously and listens well. He has given me some great quotes and rules of thumb over the years.

Top Five Quotes from my Pediatrician

1. "Give them Tylenol or Advil, I believe you if you say they have a temperature."
   



2. "If the kiddo starts getting you up at night after usually sleeping through, call me the next day."


3. "How are you doing, Mom?"
   



4. "I unfortunately don't have a magic potion that will fix this one, it is a virus." It makes it easier to fork out your copay rather than hearing "It's just a virus" in a condescending tone.



5. "If the child is in pajamas, they are sick, if Mom is in her pajamas,the child is really sick."

Ten things I say at the pediatrician's office

1. "How much was the bill? "


2. "Does that mean the front office staff got a raise?"


3. "Come on, act sick. How come you are acting puny at home but running around like a Tasmanian Devil now? "


4. "I would like my name inscribed on a plate for the door to Exam room 4."


5. "Do you have a frequent buyer punch card?"


6. "Was today buy one, get one free?"


7. "_______ gets to pick a sticker first, because they are sick."


8. "Don't spin me so fast on the stool, I'm getting sick."


9. "Don't sit on the floor, it's dirty."


10. "Yes, the doctor should be here any minute."

What great tips does your pediatrician give you?

Head on over to Don't Try this at Home for more great tips!

Works-For-Me-Wednesday-- Internet filter

I rarely actually purchase items online but I do spend a lot of time using the internet to research of various topics which can often bring up undesirable websites and/or images. All it takes is a typo and you'll run across something objectionable. To combat that issue we have installed a filter from Hedgebuilders. We have been with this company for several years. We've gone through loading it to new computers, multiple computers and upgrading without major issues.

My favorite part is that the guy that wrote the software is also the support person. He knows it inside and out and is quick to respond to issues and walk you through them. How cool is that?

It is reasonably priced and it does a really good job blocking sites. You can control which type of sites are blocked. It cannot be turned off unless you have Hedgebuilders do it. It also has an email accountability option for free.

They are offering a free TWO WEEK trial. The protection and peace of mind we get from this filter is immeasurable.

From Hedgebuilders:

Top 10 Reasons to Make Your Internet Safe withA+ Internet Filtering for Christians

10. With A+ you can keep your current e-mail addresses.

9. A+ uses S4F, one the highest rated filters in the Industry.

8. A+ is unapologetically designed with Christians in mind.

7. A+ is a Not-For-Profit organization focused on providing protection, not making money.

6. A+ provides special discounts for pastors, ministries, and missionaries. (Click on "Pastors and Missionaries" link on Homepage)

5. A+ offers DOUBLE PROTECTION by going a step further and word filtering search engines.

4. A+ does all the work, once it is installed you don't have to fool with software upgrades or ratings systems.

3. You can download A+ right off the web and be protected in only a few minutes.

2. A+ is very inexpensive to use. Try it two weeks for FREE!

1. A+ works anywhere in the world that the Internet is available.

Head on over to Rocks In My Dryer for more great tips!

Works-For-Me-Wednesday-- Mirror, Mirror on the Wall...

I don't know about you but I do some of my best thinking under the blow dryer in the morning. As a result, there is always something I want to write down but I don't have any paper nearby. What I do have is 3 giant mirrors and a dry erase marker. Put them together and you have a wonderful place to write reminders, Scripture, love notes, phone messages, your to-do list or the next day's events. I even have a list of items on the mirror that were donated when I cleaned the closet because I didn't have any paper. That is one list I haven't lost yet!

It is difficult to miss a note when it is blocking your view as you put on makeup or brush your hair. It is even more difficult to lose the mirror and wonder where you put it. : )

I write notes on the kid's mirror as well, and they draw pictures. My sister Auntiebug uses the mirror backsplash in the kitchen to write last doses of medications or reminders. It also works on windows, glass shower doors, and possibly white appliances. It wipes off with a tissue and any residue left comes off with window cleaner- no big deal.

That's it for me, head over to Rocks In My Dryer for MORE great tips!

Works-For-Me-Wednesday-- Scrub-a-Scrub-Scrub...

I get absolutely annoyed at my shower and bathtub when it doesn't SHINE after I just finished cleaning it. I like my tub and faucets to be not only dirt free, but also smooth to the touch and shiny enough to see my reflection. My bathroom cleaner spray may remove the dirt just fine, but doesn't make it completely smooth and shiny because the soap scum and build up has dulled and roughened the surface.

The best solution I have found for this problem is a lovely product called Barkeeper's Friend. The version I like is in powder form like Ajax or Comet. In addition to cleaning tubs and showers, I also use it on my stainless steel sinks and faucets. The only thing I don't care for is having to rinse it. I have yet to figure out an easy way to rinse the walls in our stand alone shower.

READ the label to make sure it is safe for your bathroom then hop to it.

Here are the steps:

1. Wet the tub/shower down



2. Sprinkle a generous amount around-- shake, shake, shake



3. Put on rubber gloves. It's doable with bare hands but I use rubbergloves if I have them.



4. Spread BKF around with a wet rag to make a paste that covers all the area



5. Let it sit or set for however long you get distracted



6. Go find your child who is screaming "Mommmeeee".



7. Tell big brother to put her down-- NOW



8. Tell little sister to quit taking big brother's Legos and hiding them



9. Remember that you were cleaning the tub



10. Take rag or any scrubby thing and SCRUB 'til that tub is slick as ice so if Bambi fell in your tub his little legs would just go every which way



11. Throw gloves down and RUN because it is TOO QUIET



12. Send children to separate corners with threats of "if I have to come out here one more time, I am putting Webkinz in timeout-- until tomorrow!"



13. Rinse tub and fixtures with lots of water until shiny



14. Dream of the time you will use the tub, alone and without interruption, like in about 18 years



15. Put supplies away



16. Go get a Diet Coke and while you drink it



17. Return to the bathroom



18. Admire your hard work



19. Leave the quiet of the bathroom and go play LEGOS

For other more helpful tips, head on over to Rocks In My Dryer.

Works-For-Me-Wednesday-- Webkinz

The Webkinz craze has hit our house this Christmas. Want to know how bad?

I've got it too. It's an illness.

I stayed up past midnight New Year's Eve, not because I wanted to see the new year in but rather because I got carried away playing games on http://www.webkinz.com/ and lost track of time. I didn't even know it was midnight until I heard some firecrackers going off nearby.

For those of you new to the WKC (WebKinz Craze), I'll elaborate. Ganz makes many stuffed animals that come with special codes that allow you to adopt the stuffed animal and then create a world for that pet online. You take care of it, decorate it's room, take it to the doctor, get a job and a myriad of other activities that I have yet to do-- all online. You finance your operation by playing games, getting a job, or answering questions for KinzCash. You can only play on the site if you have a code from purchasing an animal. For a more detailed look, click HERE and take a tour.

I had NO idea what a big deal Webkinz were. Ticklebug and Doodlebug had them on their Cmas list. I thought they were just overpriced stuffed animals. I still think that.

Want to see my new toy?

Meet Coconut. I got him on Clearance at Target for $9.08. I spent my Cmas money on him. He's not the cutest thing but now I have my own login and can win my own KinzCash!

The regular WK run anywhere from $10 to $16.50 at retail stores. I have yet to figure out what price the MSRP is. Anyone know?

TB and DB play with the stuffed animals in the house like crazy. They have been giving them rides on their scooters, having playdates, and they even have beds made for them. I think I'll buy some ribbon and velcro and make them collars. Collars for the WK, not the children. Although...

Anyway, my tip for this week... is... buy your own Webkinz.

It will save you some trouble trying to remember which child's account you last played on so you can be fair.

I have an extra Pug who needs a good home. Let me know if he can come live at your house...

For other more helpful tips, head on over to Rocks In My Dryer.

Works-For-Me-Wednesday--BACKWARDS-- Simplify, Chill, Slooooowwww Doooowwwnnn

Today is the day that I get to find out what works for you! Here's the scoop. My mantra for 2008 is "Go Slow and Let it Go". My ultimate goal would be to thrive more days than survive, but I'll take what I can get. As a stay at home mom of 3, I would like to know what has helped you simplify, slow down, chill out or otherwise be able to deal with your life. I have let a lot go around the house already.

What have you read, written, or done to get you through the laundry, dishes, cooking, cleaning, or running around?

Head over to Rocks in My Dryer for more WFMW.

Works-For-Me-Wednesday--Getting ready for school!

A tardy and almost second tardy prompted some rethinking of our morning routine. We can't do anything about the awful amount of time it takes to go .75 miles to the elementary but we can at least get into the queue in a timely manner. I can't take credit for a great idea for getting out the door on time for school. My friend Bestbug gave me this solution.

We have already gotten into the habit of picking out clothes, packing snacks and lunches, and bringing backpacks downstairs the night before. They are also required to be "dressed to the shoes" as Flylady is fond of saying before eating a bite of breakfast.

So... we now set TWO alarms on my cell phone to go off every weekday. The first one goes off at 7:33 and is a "Stop eating breakfast and go brush your teeth". And the second alarm at 7:35 is "Go grab your stuff and load up, I'll meet you in the van".

It works great because they don't argue with a cell phone. It keeps me on task as well.

Anyway, something to add to your parenting "toolbox".

Head over to Shannon at Rocks In My Dryer for other great tips and tricks to add to your arsenal.

Works-For-Me-Wednesday-- Kids in the kitchen

I have implemented a new rule at our house. "No Work, No Eat". I finally had had enough of me doing all the work to get food on the table. So in order for that to happen I had to make things accessible for the little buggers in the kitchen and pantry.

A friend of mine who is a single mom of now grown kids told me how she rearranged the kitchen to make it possible for her kids to be more independent. I followed her advice and I moved all the kid sized plates, cups, bowls down to a low cupboard and put my crockpot and other stuff on the cupboard above the counter. I left the regular breakable plates and glasses up high. The silverware is already in a low drawer so that wasn't a problem. In the pantry I moved the cereal, breakfast food, and snack foods down on the lowest shelves.

As a result of the above changes, my kids can now serve themselves and others drinks and food. They can get a bowl of cereal for breakfast with minimum help and they help get everything out for dinner. Doodlebug is 7 and usually pours the drinks. Ticklebug is five and usually get the napkins and silverware. Snugglebug is 2 and she gets the plates out. They can get their own snacks and help pack their own lunches.

No only can they help with meal related things, but also they can now unload the dishwasher because anything that is plastic is within their reach. No more excuses!

I don't feel like a slave anymore and they are learning how to count the correct number of items, gauge how much liquid the cup will hold, and how to work together as a team to get the job done.

I realize the above is possibly a no-brainer but you know how easy it is as a mom to miss the obvious. It's not like we don't have anything on our minds!

For other great WFMW ideas head on over to Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer.

Works-For-Me Wednesday: The What-Do-I-Fix? Edition

It was 5 o'clock, and the little buggers said they were hungry --over and over and over and over and over. The cupboards were bare. BUT this day, the day you had planned to take Kroger by storm, you ended up running Junior's lunch to him at school instead of getting groceries. You also took Sue to see the doctor because she coughed all night. You then stopped by the pharmacy, just making it home in time to lay your cranky two-year-old down for the afternoon nap. There was no time to shop.

The best solution to this problem that I have encountered was from a wonderful friend and neighbor, BestBug. Our usual 5 p.m. conversation goes something like this:

BB: "Do you have dinner planned yet?"
MB: "Uh, no. Do you?"
BB: " No, haven't even thought about it."
MB: "Wanna order pizza together? I have a buy-one-get-one-free coupon."

Little did I know that this time the conversation would go something like this:

BB: "Do you have dinner planned yet?"
MB: "Uh, no."
BB: "Here's a gallon of homemade vegetable soup. "

Only a stupid person would say "no thanks, I'll order pizza again". I am not stupid! I took that soup and RAN.

Unfortunately, if you don't have a BestBug in your life, you may have to settle for a 'popcorn night'. We pop loads of popcorn and cut up fruit, veggies, cheese, or whatever we have on hand and watch a movie.

Have you ever been a BestBug to someone and shared your dinner with them? Try it sometime. Knock their socks off with an unexpected dinner offer. You'll make their night!

Head on over to Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer for other awesome last minute ideas!

Works for Me Wednesday! My best friend...

In honor of WFMW, I would like to introduce you to one of my best friends "Swiffer Sweep and Vac". Swiffer meet the internets.

We met a couple of years ago as a result of a personal ad on TV. I was cynical after how I felt I had been let down in the past. I wasn't sure there was anything out there for me that would help meet my sweeping needs. My last relationship with a broom was more because it was comfortable and convenient as much as anything. I wasn't very content and my kids didn't really like him. In fact, they avoided him every time he came out. Our relationship was a take or leave it kind of thing. And he was ALWAYS leaving it! I just couldn't take it anymore!

When I saw that personal ad, I thought he was too good to be true. I figured he was misrepresenting himself and exaggerating. So I Googled him and then waited 6 weeks before I met him for the first time. I wasn't investing in this relationship without a good coupon to help cover my loss if the bottom fell out.

I was still cautious and skeptical but I brought him to my house to hang out a bit in the kitchen. Wow! He is the real deal! My floors were crumb free in no time flat and we had such fun. I was able to get along all the baseboards and into the corners under the cabinets where the mop can't reach. His swivel head made sweeping under the table and chairs effortless without moving a piece of furniture. I had so much fun that I begged him to stay longer and we tackled the entry and all the bathrooms. My kids loved racing around with him-- even the 3 y/o! How awesome is that! If they get along with him that well then he is a keeper.

He has been a part of our family ever since that day. There was no way I was letting go of him. I know a good thing when I see it!

So here we are today, almost at our two year anniversary. He asks for so little and gives so much. He's the best!

That's what works for me! Head on over to Shannon at Rocks in my Dryer for more tips and ideas. Happy Reading!