They Grow SO Fast

It is a common saying; "They grow so fast." Some sayings are said for a reason. I was just going through pictures of my little guy and I honestly cannot believe the way that he transferred from a baby to a boy. Although he will always be my baby. They may catch me saying "My baby is the one in right field wearing #3." I may also be found making my pre-teen sit in my lap or cuddle with me on the couch. It is exciting to watch them grow but also sobering to think of how important it is to cherish every moment. Every time they fall asleep in your arms or cry to your when they are needing some taking care of. I am happy to have pictures and videos of memories, but will try not to be sad when my sweet boy graduates from high school and is off to college because I know that I have cherished every moment of his growth and will see the excitement in all ages.

Mother's day bliss

Today is Mother's Day, and I have enjoyed being honored for the work that it takes to be a good mom to my baby. It is long hours with no over time, it is selfless attention and endless love, it is grubby housework, it is making food for yourself only to give it to them when they say they want it, it is cleaning poopy diapers and wiping snotty noses, it is cleaning throw up, doctors appointments, medicine, and most of all letting your child consume your heart and be the first priority in your life. A day of honor is nice, but the rest of the year is better. Happy Mother's Day to all!

A trick to clipping your toddler's nails

So I came up with this idea because my almost 3-year-old very much dislikes it when I cut his nails. I needed a way to make it fun for him. I decided to try cutting just enough, but leave one piece at the end. Then you have them pull it off. We make a big deal out of it too. It has now become something that he gets to participate in and the nails get cut twice as fast because there is no fussing! YAY!

Teaching our children about water conservation

I attended a lecture on California's water shortage and have been seeing commercials on television about this crisis. I was inspired to do more research to find out tips that I can teach my son on how to appreciate and conserve our water.
• I learned that watering the lawn should be done only when the grass does not spring back after stepping on it, which signals that it is time to water. This could conserve 750-1,500 gallons a month.
• I also learned that for every leaky faucet that is fixed it could result in saving 20 gallons per day.
• Using a bucket full of water as opposed to running the hose to wash your vehicle can save 150 gallons per car.
• Installing water saving shower heads can save 500-800 gallons/ month.
• Washing full loads of laundry and dishes can save 300-800 gallons/month.
• Shortening your shower or taking a bath (which I do), can save 700 gallons a month by reduction of one or two minutes.
• Using a broom instead of a hose to clean the driveway or patio area can save 600 gallons a month.
• This is a good one: While waiting on the tap water to get hot, catch it and save it to use around the house later (watering plants, etc). This will save 200 to 300 gallons a month.
Educating our younger generation about how to follow these simple and easy tips can save hundreds of gallons per family. We must all help to conserve our god given and fundamental right of having water!
Go to www.BeWaterWise.com for more tips on conserving water