It's hard to believe that were are already to August. This year has really gone by quickly, despite the facts that we've spent so much time at home. And though I see my husband every day (and my kids too), we haven't been able to enjoy many "date nights" together in this pandemic. What about you? Are you having a hard time finding date nights during this pandemic? We've been having almost no date morning, afternoon, or nights here at the Long house. We really need to be intentional about … [Read more...]
Printable Babysitter Information Sheets
Summer is always a difficult time in our house because the kids are out of school and I work part time at our kids' private school. This summer, my husband is working from home all the time due to the pandemic. But to get work done is difficult for him when both kids are at home too. They are pretty needy creatures aren't they? LOL! So we've been talking about daycare and a babysitter for our eight year old. Trying to decide if this is something we should invest in. And debating if it's a … [Read more...]
Parenting Tweens is Hard! Here are things to remember.
It's truly an amazing thing. One day, out of nowhere, the sweet cuddly, cooing, toddling, talking wonder wakes up: you look at this precious cherub in amazement, where did you baby go and who replaced it with this out of control, defiant, bundle of emotions? Congratulations, you have entered into the journey of the "tween" years. Parenting Tweens Early adolescence, if you choose to recall your own, is a time of changes: physical, emotional and social. Hormones are raging inside those … [Read more...]
What is a Tween and What to Expect
What is a Tween? A tween is short for tweenager and is generally between the ages of 9-12. I have an 8 year old and 12 year old in the house and can very much relate to the difficulties and positives. The "tween" years are between childhood and the teen years. It is all about adolescence. Here are some tips to help you identify the tween in your child. What to Expect in the Tween Years The body and mind of a tween are in total chaos as your child starts the transformation … [Read more...]
5 Must Do Social Distancing Activities at Home with the Kids!
A guest post by Katy McQuaid Social distancing puts a whole new twist on life. If you’re anything like me, you realize how many things you took for granted, like getting together with family and friends whenever or wherever we wanted. Even simple walks to a neighborhood market or park with my dog, Grace, don’t happen as easily. Social Distancing Activities with Pets! So how do we make the most of this time, now that we can’t get together and do the things we are used to doing? … [Read more...]
Backyard Summer Picnic Ideas
A backyard picnic is ideal for family gatherings, and particularly appropriate for this summer. With a world-wide pandemic, there’s no need to drive to crowded parks or public picnic areas where everyone else may be gathered. You can do your picnic just as well and more conveniently right in your own little private bit of the Earth. These ideas can help you get your plans started. Backyard Picnic Theme Theme dream: You may be picnicking in your own backyard, but you can make it … [Read more...]
Stocking a Vegetarian Pantry
Vegetarians rely heavily on the availability of fresh vegetables to make the filling, well-rounded meals. Soy products, eggs, and cheese are also important parts of a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet. While soy, dairy, and vegetables may be the stars of the show, a well-stocked pantry full of grains, legumes, and other basic vegetarian pantry staples will help vegetarian cooks whip up healthy meals in a flash. Basic Staples for Every Cook These basic cooking elements are important to keep on … [Read more...]