The King's Chapel MOPS

January Newsletter!

2012-01-20T07:25:00.001-05:00

http://www.scribd.com/doc/78850653/January-2012-Newsletter-2

2012-01-06T19:01:00.000-05:00

Here is a link to the MOPS presentation by Diana White about Family Meal Times.

http://www.scribd.com/fullscreen/77400856?access_key=key-nire2mcf58dapqlrfrh

TKC MOPS December Newsletter

2011-12-01T19:35:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas!

http://www.scribd.com/doc/74432537

SAVE THE DATE

2011-12-01T16:46:00.001-05:00

Get it on your calendar ladies- the amazing Julie Barnhill is coming back to Fairfax on March 23rd and 24th for a women's weekend at The King's Chapel.

This is an awesome weekend, you won't want to miss it. Trust me! Just ask anyone who came last year!

Tickets go on sale Jan 1 and MOPS gets a discount!

November Newsletter

2011-11-04T13:41:00.001-04:00

http://www.scribd.com/doc/71596723/MOPS-November-Newsletter

ENJOY!

Book List from our last speaker

2011-10-11T19:50:00.001-04:00

The book list:

A Mother’s Touch- Arndt

The Mom Factor- Cloud/Townsend

Proverbs for Parenting – Barbara Decker

The Squire and the Scroll – Jennie Bishop

The Princess Kiss – Jennie Bishop

Shepherding a Child’s heart- Tedd Tripp

Instructions in Righteousness – Pam Forster (Doorposts.com)

Boundaries With Kids – Cloud/Townsend

Our 24 Ways – Clay Clarkson (wholeheart.org)

If/Then Chart- Pam Forster (Doorposts.com)

Once a month cooking- Wilson/Lagerborg

401 Ways to get your kids to work at Home – Bonnie Mccullough

The New Messies Manual – Sandra Felton

Great Websites:

Flylady.netFamilytools.com – PEGS system- chore chart

Shesintouch.com

Hillbillyhousewife.com

Busymomsrecipes.com

Menus4moms.com

October Newsletter

2011-10-06T15:02:00.000-04:00

Click to view and print MOPS October Newsletter

Beth Moore's Living Proof Live Event

2011-10-01T15:09:00.001-04:00

I have been blessed to take part in two different Beth Moore Bible studies through TKC MOPS. The first time I signed up, I had no idea who she was and what it would be like. I fell in love immediately with the way she was able to share the Word so clearly. She is so funny and so easy to relate to. I then read her book, Get Out of That Pit! I was amazed and still think of her words to help me out of a difficult situation. She's great.

I want to tell you what happened to me in the past 3 days. I am a blogger, and I love to read other blogs. I am a subscriber to Beth Moore's blog and read it regularly. When I opened up my reader on Thursday, I saw an entry that stated they were giving out 20 scholarship funds for women to attend her live event in Baltimore the next day (Friday). What? This would be my dream to see her live, but I have to admit my family is struggling with finances right now. My husband is in the construction business and we are just so blessed that he has a job, but we couldn't afford any extras like this. I would need a scholarship if I were to go. So, I thought that I would call the number, but I was sure they would have no extra tickets. I mean they were only giving 20 out and it was already hours into the time allotted. I called, and talked with Kimberly who told me that YES! they do have a ticket for me and would be honored if I joined them. How nice she was. I was beyond excited because it was a two day event Friday night and Saturday morning that I was going to be blessed by Beth Moore's teaching in person!

It was an amazing experience and I would recommend anyone who has a chance to go, to do it! Her words went straight to my heart and I'm loving jamming out to Travis Cottrell in my car. :)

God did this for me. He knew there was something that I needed to hear in that stadium, with Beth Moore, on that day, in that moment. I listened.

Enjoy some of the videos I took while there, they are short and sweet but I wanted to share the atmosphere.

Here she is! Right by me!

The whole worship team. It was so moving! So many people singing with all their might in response to Travis Cottrell. Wonderful worship leader!

Travis Cottrell. I suggest getting his CD, the live version. He really gets you into it. Amazing feeling.

I was actually quite close to the stage, but they also had these huge tv screens for those who couldn't see it well.

Beth Moore went into the crowd many times to talk and discuss with the women attending the event. Her bodyguard did follow close behind her though.

Beth Moore wholeheartedly supports Samaritan's Purse which helps feed the poor. So excited to help in these efforts.

Can't wait to see you all at the next MOPS meeting!
-Elaine

2011-09-24T17:13:00.001-04:00

What a great turn out we had for the MOPS annual yard sale! It's one of the most important fundraisers we have as a MOPS group and we couldn't have been more blessed. We were blessed with no rain, MOPS members to work the event, and people who were there to purchase the items! I was there for awhile and really, just like Kristen said, it was a blast. I loved being able to see what people picked out, talking with them, and eyeing all the baked goods! So yummy. Thank you Kristen, who put the plans in motion for this event. Thank you for all those who donated, helped sort, price items, move items, and sold baked goods. Thanks to Mr. Heck and all those who prayed for good weather and good people. We are blessed.

GUESS WHAT?!

2011-09-10T19:35:00.001-04:00

We don't have to wait 2 weeks for our first MOPS meeting! We were rained out of our first meeting last friday but the coordinators worked their magic and we are now scheduled for this Friday (the 16th) at 9:30! Yay! Can't wait to see you all! Please remember to sign up through evite and let them know how many children you will be bringing. It's so important to do this early so that we may staff MOPPETS accordingly!
Thanks so much,
Elaine Simonsen

MOPS Kick Off Picnic

2011-09-01T11:04:00.000-04:00

We had an amazing kick off picnic! It was so fun for the children and time well spent by moms. We are going to have a great year! Special thanks to those who put it all together for us!

MOPS Steering Meeting 2011

2011-08-27T17:56:00.004-04:00

I just want to say that I met with a wonderful group of ladies today. We are the steering team for our beloved MOPS group and we are so excited for the year to begin! We can't wait to learn about, chat, discuss and celebrate this thing called MOMSENSE!

Crafts galore! We have some amazing things for you to make this year!

Mentor Moms are a huge resource for us all.

Jean Siler (one of the coordinators) discussing plans for the upcoming MOPS year!

Melanie Jeschke and Kristen Lester working out the calendar.

Taylor Brown and Erica Demille are in charge of Hospitality this year. They would love some help! If you'd like to be a part of this team, just contact us.

Janet Kibler (along with Jessica Middleton) will be your creativity team this year. Janet and Jessica have some great crafts they are going over with the co-coordinators.

Here is a large part of our steering team! Thank God for these ladies and the ministry that they provide.

Marilyn Miller and Melanie Jeschke. Two of our mentor moms who are here to help us!

The view of the ladies hard at work making our MOPS year terrific. I'm excited!! ARE YOU? See you soon!

-Elaine Simonsen (Discussion Group Leader)

Mark Your Calendar!

2011-08-17T14:11:00.003-04:00

Fall Semester Meeting Dates

September 9th

September 23rd

October 7th

October 21st

November 4th

November 18th

December 2nd

December 16th

MOPS Kick Off Picnic

2011-08-17T14:06:00.001-04:00

Come out for a fun filled morning at our annual picnic to kick off a brand new MOPS year!

Bring your friends!

Face painting, games for the kids and yummy treats for all.

Watermelon, cake and drinks will be provided. Just bring a small bag lunch and blanket.

WHEN IS IT?

Friday, August 26th at 11:00 a.m. at Popes Head Park.

Directions: Fairfax County Parkway South, right on Popes Head Road, go .5 mile and make a right onto Revercomb Court. Park in big parking lot there and follow the path back to the park.

Julie Barnhill Spring Event

2011-01-06T15:22:00.002-05:00

Call her a 21st century Erma Bombeck with a pleasantly skewed twist!

Her quirky style, hilarious delivery, and authentic confessions of her own struggles and defeats have made Julie Barnhill a highly popular keynote speaker and break-out session leader. For more about Julie, check out www.juliebarnhill.com.

She is coming to The King's Chapel on March 4th and 5th! Limited seating- register fast!

Julie is just like you and me. She is a mom who has faced trials and challenges and God had taught her along the way to lean on Him for even the smallest problem or big ones. The great thing about Julie is that she likes to make her audience laugh until they snort while leading them to deeply seeking Christ. It is going to be fun and inspiring! I can't wait! I will need a good laugh and some inspiring motivation by March, how about you?

Friday night, March 4th, 7pm - 9pm, Julie will be speaking particularly to mothers in all stages of motherhood. "One Tough Mother: The Non-negotiables of Stepping Up & Being the Mom." If you don't step up as a parent, someone else will step in. Julie offers ten absolutes every mom needs to implement in the life of her children and home.

Saturday, March 5th, 1pm - 4pm, she will discuss "Running after Jesus" which all women will enjoy. "Running After Jesus" compels women to get serious about following Jesus as they choose to quit playing games with personal holiness, stop allowing others to diminish the intensity of their walk with Jesus, and begin displaying the radiance that comes from learning to Live! Move! and Be! in relationship with an irresistible Savior.

Tickets can be purchased at www.tkcwomen.eventbrite.com
You may attend one event for $20 or both for $30.
Purchase 5 tickets in advance by check and receive one free.

Invite your friends: find us on facebook at "The Kings Chapel Julie Barnhill Womens Spring event" or email us for an invitation that you may give or send to friends.

Make a ladies night out event out of it! The Hilton Garden Inn in Fairfax has offered a special rate of $75. To book a room, contact them at 703-385-7774 and ask for the "Barnhill event" rate.

Please email tkcbarnhillevent@gmail.com for any further information.

See you there!

Day Four- Heart vs. Stomach

2010-11-18T08:50:00.002-05:00

A Treat Just for Him

Get a food treat for your husband that he's not required to share with you or any other family member.

Prayer for Today: Dear God, I want my husband to know that he is honored and cherished, even in the little things I do for him.

Stumped for Ideas? Here are some thoughts:
-Get his favorite ice cream and hide it behind the frozen chicken, ready and waiting for his special night.
-Is there a certain candy he loves from childhood? check out wwww.candywarehouse.com and see if you can find it for him.
-Is there a certain cut of meat your husband loves? Have the butcher cut something just for him.

What is your plan for today? Let us know the results!

Day Three!

2010-11-17T11:05:00.002-05:00

Say something nice about your husband to someone else. Make sure you tell him what you said, and to whom.

Dear God, let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight.

I love this one! I could brag on my husband all day long.

What can you praise your husband for? Does he work hard? Is he a loving father? Does he stand up for what's right? What will YOU brag on your husband for?

Husband Project: Day Two

2010-11-16T09:32:00.001-05:00

Today's project:

Initiate an activity that your husband used to love. Whether it's his favorite hobby, sport, or pastime, it's time for you to get involved. Be his buddy today.

Dear God, I pray that my husband can view me as his friend and lover, as You have designed.

Husband Project Launches Today!

2010-11-15T09:45:00.003-05:00

Here we go ladies, day One!

Project 1: Focus on your husband's transitional 30 minutes today. Would he like to be left alone to rest and rejuvenate, or does he want some undivided attention from you? The point is to let your husband know you value what he does out in the world, and that he has a safe, loving place to come home to and get refreshed at the end of the day.

Dear God, help me to drop the to-do list for my husband today and focus on who he is, not just what he can do.

Let's use this week to encourage each other with this as we jump start our relationships!

The Husband Project

2010-11-09T16:23:00.001-05:00

Launch Date: Monday, November 15th

Do you feel like your marriage has gone from "I do" to "What did I do?" Recapture the romance that made you and your husband fall in love in the first place. The Husband Project provides 21 days of fun activities to show love and honor to your husband. You will discover:

-Proven ways to return fun and flirting to your marriage.
-Inner assurance to meet your husband's unspoken emotional needs.
-Increased confidence when it comes to meeting your husbands sexual needs.
-New levels of warmth and tenderness in your relationship.
-A deeper sense of security with your husband.
-A greater ability to boost your husband's belief in himself.

OK, now who wouldn't love all of the above?!? Really!

Here's how it will work. If you're in, you can order the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/Husband-Project-Loving-Man---Purpose/dp/0736925228/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1289337548&sr=8-1

Each day we will post the daily "project" on our MOPS blog. www.tkcmops.blogspot.com. We can use it as a discussion board to generate ideas and encourage each other.

If you don't want to buy the book and just follow along via the blog updates, that's fine too!

Looking forward to finding new ways to love and honor our awesome husbands together.

MOPS Fall Semester Calendar

2010-08-15T17:19:00.007-04:00

Announcing our calendar for our Fall Semester....................... drumroll please!

Friday, September 10th MOPS RECIPE SWAP and Craft - Learn how to save time meal planning, grocery shopping and get some really great recipes!

Friday, September 24th Paul Goodnight is our speaker- "The Differences Between Raising Boys and Girls!"

Friday, October 1st MOPSwap (trade toys, books and other kids' items) and Craft

Friday, October 15th Michele Powers is our speaker on nutrition!

Friday, November 5th Personality profiles and Craft!

Friday, November 19th POPS (Papas of Preschoolers) Panel

Friday, December 3rd Scream-Free Parenting by Neil McNerney

Friday, December 17th Christmas meeting- craft!

MOPS Kick OFF

2010-07-27T16:02:00.003-04:00

MOMS!

Our first meeting is Friday, September 10th from 930-1130 a.m. Look for the evite for further details.

Also, save the date and save your junk! We're holding our annual Yard and Bake Sale on Saturday, September 18th in the church parking lot. Looking for helpers and bakers as well as donations! Email mops.tkc@gmail.com for more information.

Looking ahead to next year!

2010-05-26T12:51:00.002-04:00

What an amazing year our MOPS group had! We will be hvaing a summer bible study one morning a week if anyone is interested please email Kristen at mops.tkc@gmail.com.

We pick back up in September and we're taking the plunge to meet twice a month next year! Hooray!

First meeting is Friday, September 10th- mark your calendar and see you then!!

Top Five Ways to turn Cabin Fever into Dance Fever!

2010-02-08T15:59:00.000-05:00

by Katherine Craddock

Housebound with little ones this winter? Looking for a way to make lasting memories, burn a few calories, and rediscover your wild side? Crank up your favorite CDs, clear a spot on the playroom floor, and get ready to throw one of our top five “Crazy Wiggle Dance Parties”!

1) Glow Dance Party -- purchase some cheap glow-in-the-dark sticks, bracelets, or necklaces. Distribute liberally to your children, and find a nice, dark closet or bathroom. Turn off the lights, shut the door, turn on the music and get ready to rave! This one is so cool Dad might even join in the fun.

2) Prince and Princess Ball – dust off one of your finest bridesmaid dresses and join your daughter (and sons – they’ll need a cape, sword, and maybe boots, of course) in her most glorious princess regalia. Bowing, curtsying, and waltzing to classical music are the order of the day. Tiaras and crowns are a definite plus, and major bonus points if you actually apply makeup. Don’t forget to share some lip gloss and eye shadow with your little princess!

3) Childhood Classics Dance Party – you don’t even need music to make this dance party work. Gather your children and help them perform nursery rhyme classics like “Itsy Bitsy Spider”, “I’m a Little Teapot”, “Father Abraham,” “Old MacDonald”, and of course, the “Hokie Pokie”. If you’re feeling really frisky you can toss in ye olde wedding standards the “Electric Slide” and the ever-classic “Chicken Dance.”

4) Hard Rock Dance Party – if you have little boys, this dance party is sure to be a winner. Grab some pots, pans, and banging spoons and get ready to make some noise. (Don’t forget to show them how to head bang, crowd surf, and play some mean air guitar).

5) Sweet Lullaby Dance Party – my favorite of all, perfect for passing the time with a colicky newborn. Hold your baby close in your arms, close your eyes, and sing softly to your baby in as you waltz and rock around the room to sweet lullabies. You will never forget that moment for the rest of your life.

January's Meeting

2009-12-21T09:49:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who made our December meeting such a great morning! Our January 15th meeting will include a speaker, Michelle Torbert, who will speak on "Surviving the Traveling Spouse." If your husband travels a lot or just works a lot Michelle's presentation will encourage you and give you tips on how to make it work. Be there!

An Evening In December

2009-11-08T07:18:00.000-05:00

You are warmly invited to An Evening in December: A Star is Born (for women).

In the midst of the craziness, pause for a moment, set aside your to-do list, invite a friend and escape to an unforgettable night of celebration, music & inspiration.

Music by: Grammy Award Winning Artist Kathy Troccoli
Message by: "Focus on the Family" Top 10 speaker and noted author Ellie Lofaro
December 6 and 7, 2009 (same program both nights - all new message for 2009!) 7:30 – 10:00 pm at Open Door Presbyterian Church in Herndon

Tickets are $10 in advance and can be purchased online at http://odpcec.org/454303.ihtml

November MOPS Meeting

2009-10-22T14:22:00.003-04:00

Join us for our November meeting for a fun packed meeting!

We have a wonderful speaker, Michelle Rawbone, who will be speaking on "Captivating your Preschooler with Movement and Music!" Michelle leads the very popular mainly music at McLean Bible Church. She is from New Zealand and the mother of 3 young children. She is able to relate easily with mothers of young children. Just her voice alone is captivating!

We will also be preparing our Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes so be sure to bring any empty shoeboxes you may have as well as supplies to pack into the boxes. Suggested gifts are small toys (include batteries), school supplies, hygiene items, candy, socks, etc. Do not include used items, war-related toys, food, chocolate, liquids, lotions, medications, vitamins, breakable items or aerosol cans.

Title: A Lesson from the Planet Mom Garden

2009-09-29T14:09:00.000-04:00

A voice says, "Cry out."
And I said, "What shall I cry?"
"All men are like grass, and all their glory
is like the flowers of the field.”

– Isaiah 40:6

By Christmastime last year, I was sure my 10 month old son was well on his way to being an early walker. No one who saw him could ignore his enormous size – his body seemingly chiseled out of pure muscle.

But as his birthday neared, and the other children his age began toddling around on two legs, my son began to “walk” in his own way … on his knees. He was lightning fast, but his odd behavior was painfully awkward to watch and impossible for friends, family, and even strangers to ignore.

Deep, deep inside, I knew that if I was patient, one day this powerhouse would not just walk, but run, and perhaps one day become the consummate athlete. But day to day, the nagging doubts attacked my belief in my son’s abilities. The constant pressure and endless comparisons chipped away at my resolve.

So there were blood tests and doctor’s visits, neurological referrals and endless amateur home occupational therapy sessions. The entire “village” turned out to pray and teach my son to walk. And then, one day – deep in the summer months – he did it. All on his own. My half-crippled son walked on his feet. And not just walked, but ran.

In God’s perfect timing, the beauty of my son’s athleticism finally and joyously blossomed (and with the help of more than a few gardeners along the way!). And so it is with all of our children – their glory is like the flowers of the field.

For each generation, God has prepared an entire garden of flowers. Some, like tiny crocuses, tulips, and hyacinths, bloom early in their lives. Their soft beauty, strong resilience, and beautiful fragrance give us a reminder of hope and resurrection – then sweetly melt away.

Other children burst forth with wild, exuberant colors in their elementary and teen years. Some will blossom and bear fruit later, in the middle of their lives. Other cut flowers fill our homes with color and fragrance and life until they are suddenly gone.

There are loud, attractive summer sun flowers like echinacea, Russian sage, daisies, and black-eyed Susans. There are thorny briers that burst into rose blooms, and quieter shade plants like hosta and hydrenga who bring beauty and peace to the darkness.

And last of all, there are the plants that have been patiently and steadily growing all along, looking like nothing much. Entire seasons of life can pass before these flowers find their voice. But when they do, the asters and sedums, chrysanthemums and hollies remind us of the beauty that was, and is to come.

Who can say which has more beauty or value – the crocus or the rose? Each, when lovingly tended, is unique in its own strength, and has no need to be compared. So whether your daughter walks at 9 months or 19 months, or whether your wild son behaves as early as Pre-school or not until after College, be encouraged every child – “gifted”, “disabled”, or “normal” – will bloom with great beauty in the Gardeners’ time.

-By Katherine Craddock

First meeting of the year!

2009-09-02T11:04:00.001-04:00

TKC MOPS will have our first meeting on Friday, September 18th from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

"Welcome to Planet Mom" is our theme this year!

See you on the 18th! Look for the evite!

10 Ways to make it throughthe day with a toddler

2009-08-11T13:37:00.000-04:00

While I try to champion the wonderful qualities of toddlers, I'll be the first to admit that your average two year old can sometimes be exhausting, exasperating and extremely hard to entertain. For those days when your little one has you in a heap on the floor and there are still 10 hours till bedtime, I offer the following distractions.

1. Find a field. If weather is remotely agreeable, I highly recommend taking your little person to the biggest, widest open space you can find and then just sitting in the middle of it. Your toddler can run, dig, chase balls, you name it, and you can mostly sit. Any type of large area will work, so those who are far from fields or snowed under can improvise.

2. Dig out the kiddie pool. Yes, even if there are 12 feet of snow outside. Bring it into the kitchen, put a sheet underneath it and your toddler inside it and then put some buckets of strange things in there. Some ideas are dried beans, rice, dragon tears, polished rocks, packing peanuts and sand. Be sure to include scoops and empty bowls to mix up concoctions. You can bury little toys inside some of the containers for an added treat. Just be sure to watch toddler nonstop, so the goodies don't end up in her mouth, nose or ears.

3. Make a mess on the carpet. This idea comes from Magical Mama Barb and is utterly brilliant:
"My youngest two especially like to take things and dump them out on the carpet. Well, I got the idea to 'freshen' up my carpet the other day, and knew the kids would enjoy helping me, as it ALLOWED them to make a mess on the carpet. I put about a cup of baking soda mixed with some lavender essential oil in a powdered sugar shaker, and let them go shake it all over the carpet. Woo-hoo, running wild and free shaking white stuff all over the carpet! I took the shaker and had them lay their hands on the floor with their fingers spread out as wide as possible. Then I shook the powder all over their hands, leaving nice 'shadows' of their handprints on the carpet. The kids loved it!"

When done, the kids can even help vacuum and make it disappear.

4. Make an obstacle course. Toddlers love it when they get to tear up the room and climb on the furniture! Use couch cushions, blankets, bean bags, etc. to make the living room into a giant play land. This is guaranteed to buy you enough time to do at least one chore and at least one thing to make yourself feel pampered. It's remarkably easy to clean up afterwards and is good exercise for the kiddos too!

5. Find some cardboard boxes. They're still the best toys on earth. Get a big box and help toddler draw on car doors or rocket ship panels, make a puppet show stage, cut out a door and windows for houses, you name it. If you have several you can make a whole town. You can haul out dolls and stuffed animals to get in on the fun too. If you're not up to the artistic part just let your little one loose with even one cardboard box and watch how much fun it generates. When you're done you can flatten them and recycle them or stow them under the bed.

6. Download some free toddler games from the internet. Do a google search for "freeware toddlers" and you'll find lots of pages of all kinds of free games for little ones. Our all-time favorite here is Tuxpaint, an absolutely free and absolutely wonderful drawing program for kids that has "stickers," magical effects, funny sounds and tons more. While it claims to be for children 3 and up, my two year old can easily do it and a one year old could with assistance. You can read about it and download it here: http://www.newbreedsoftware.com/tuxpaint/

7. Crumple up a bunch of paper. Yep, that's it! Use some scrap paper, newspapers or ads and just crumple each page into a ball. When you have a laundry basket full (at least!), wage a snowball fight inside, have your little one try to make baskets or even let her sit in them and pour them over her head. She can throw them up in the air, try to juggle, practice throwing and catching, stomp them and more. When you're all done, have her help you bag them all up and put them in the recycling. You can even count them as you collect them and make it educational. ;)

8. Make some squeeze art. Fill an empty glue or ketchup bottle with a paste of flour (or cornstarch), water and food coloring (if desired). Spread out some newspaper and give your toddler a cookie sheet to squeeze designs onto. When he's done with the designs he can use a plastic fork, finger or homemade pattern comb (a piece of cardboard with waves or spikes cut into one side to leave trails) to make further designs in the goop. When he's done with one creation, rinse it off in the sink and let him do another. Anybody who's ever had a toddler get into a bottle of glue knows how irresistible they find the simple act of squeezing a puddle of ooze.

9. Go for a walk. It'll do wonders to burn off your tot's energy and lift your mood, and put you both in a calmer frame of mind for the evening. If you have to, just walk together down every hall of your apartment building. It counts! When we're in a motel I often take the kids on evening runs through the halls. The only rules are that they have to tiptoe when they run, can't run if there are people in the hall, and must whisper. I even join in the tiptoe dashes sometimes!

10. Get out the art supplies. Any of the following will occupy your average two year old for enough time to give you a break: assorted pipe cleaners, safety scissors with a variety of things to cut (different kinds of paper, ribbon, grass or leaves, tin foil, etc.), play dough and stuff to roll and poke it with, Color Wonder markers and paints, chalk with a chalkboard and wet sponge, a pencil sharpener and crayons to sharpen, stickers (we buy page reinforcers or price stickers so we get tons for a dollar), modeling beeswax.... You get the idea!

Remember, this age really is a short one and all too soon your little darling will be running away from you and busy with other people. Take the time to actually experience this year. For all the stress and exasperation, it's also a year filled with firsts, with lasts (how many stages will soon be over forever?) and experiences that are uniquely for twos. Watch her while she sleeps. Notice his fat little toes. Record that goofy voice. Write down those funny sayings. Take pictures. Give hugs. Enjoy the cuddles and be proud of the obstinacy that means your little one is learning to be a big person. And as always, don't forget to take care of you!

Taken from: http://www.magicalchildhood.com/articles/10ways.htm

Living Life ToGeThEr!

2009-07-15T09:18:00.004-04:00

MOPS International has announced their new theme for the upcoming year. Together on Planet Mom!

When you become a mom, all your relationships change. It’s like you have landed on a different planet—Planet Mom—and the relationships on Planet Mom don’t look like the ones on your previous planet. Your relationship with yourself is different—you are a mom! Your relationship with your husband, girlfriends, extended family, community and God have all changed. Many of these changes are positive, some are not. Even positive change requires adjustments on your part.

Join us this upcoming MOPS year as we explore how to thrive in relationships!

MOPS Summer Playdates

2009-06-07T15:46:00.002-04:00

Stay sane this summer and join us for playdates!

Play Date – National Zoo
Thursday, June 18th 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
National Zoo – Free!

Play Date – Banjo Man at Jammin Java
Vienna- Cost is $5- All ages!
Thursday, June 25th 10:00 a.m.
227 Maple Avenue, Vienna, VA

Play Date- Pool Day
Friday, July 17th
Bring your swimsuit, sunblock and a blow up baby pool if you have one!
Lester home: 10802 Norman Avenue, Fairfax, 22030

Play Date- Craddock Home
Thursday, July 23rd 10:30 a.m.
Bring snacks/lunch and swimsuits if it's sunny!

Play Date – StoryTime at Borders
Tuesday, August 4th at 11 am - FREE
11054 Lee Highway, Fairfax

Play Date- Miller Home
Thursday, August 20th
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Taking a Sick Day!

2009-05-06T10:52:00.001-04:00

In honor of the swine flu epidemic, I had a grand ten step article all laid out for coping with the demands of motherhood while ill.

Great advice like, “Get dressed … it will help you stay on your feet and keep going” and “Act like you’re not sick, you’ll get better soon.” I would be sick AND the perfect mom at the same time.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA.

Before I could write those words, I crashed. Had a complete meltdown. Twice. In one day. My body just couldn’t take “Do at least one load of laundry and the dishes.” And it certainly couldn’t handle “play through the pain” when I absolutely freaked out, punched a wall, cried hysterically and got the first red card of my life after playing while sick at an indoor soccer game. (I was brutally fouled, Ref – and I’m sticking to it!).

Soooooooooo, here is my REAL advice for “Taking a Sick Day” while being a mom:

DECLARE A SICK DAY (or days) AND STICK TO IT. Put on your PJs and explain to dad and your babies that “mommy is sick today” – so don’t expect much! Stay in bed or lounge on the couch. Fully utilize the “silent babysitter” … your TV. Let your kids “play nurse” and wait on you hand and foot (trust me; they actually think this is really fun). Pull out your freezer meals. Listen to the radio or watch a “mommy” movie. And if you feel compelled to do chores, stick to the basics 1) Feeding and changing your kids and 2) Light housework like sorting or working on the computer (which, interestingly enough, is the kind of work that “sick” people in the office world take a break from!).

Whatever you do, put your energies towards getting better and cuddling your babies as much as you can. If you don’t take care of yourself physically, there is so much room for your emotional and spiritual being to come under attack. In the end, your might not look like the “perfect” mom to your family or your friends, but you WILL be a peaceful mom. And there is nothing more perfect than a mom – and a family – at peace. Just ask my referee.

Maaah-meee! I’m HUNGRY!

2009-04-22T13:52:00.001-04:00

I am admittedly one of the world’s worst cooks. Within the first few months of our marriage, I literally set our apartment on fire. And my husband and I are both notoriously cheap – not a bad thing in these economic times!

That’s why we often turn to sandwiches. Not only are they a quick fix for our three clamoring preschoolers, they are often nutritious, delicious, and expeditious for our on-the-go lifestyle. Here are ten simple favorites to save time and keep cash in your wallet:

1. Peanut butter and jelly. Crunchy or smooth, jelly or jam …need I say more?

2. Egg salad. Hardboiled eggs, a little light mayo and some relish will do the trick!

3. Barbecue. Get a pre-packaged pack from the store and slap it on top of a hamburger bun or sandwich roll

4. Peanut butter and honey. So delicious my kids have coined it “the candy sandwich” …but not for babies under 1 year!

5. Tuna Fish. A can or two of tuna, light mayo, mustard, dried onions, pepper, relish and a dash of lemon juice is perfect on sandwiches or crackers!

6. Meat and cheese. Turkey or ham, Munster or Swiss … the combinations are endless!

7. Peanut butter and banana. Shake up an old standard with a little variety.

8. Grilled cheese. Cheap, easy, and sooo good. There was a reason your mom made it for you every day!

9. Quesadillas. Flour tortilla + shredded cheese + 20 seconds in the microwave = magic! (Add some refried beans for a little protein if you want)

10. Reubens. Rye bread, sour kraut, pastrami or corned beef , swiss or pepper jack cheese and optional Thousand Island dressing.

What sandwich recipes do you have hiding in your kitchen?

-Katherine Craddock

MOPS Fundraiser- Recipes Galore!

2009-04-14T16:10:00.003-04:00

Please submit your most yummy, favorite recipes to mops.tkc@gmail.com to be put in our MOPS Meals in Minutes Cookbook!

We will be collecting recipes throughout this Spring and will sell them in an effort to raise money for next year's MOPS meetings.

Please send in at least 3-5 of your best recipes!

All da Single Wadies!

2009-04-06T15:10:00.002-04:00

“All da single wadies, all da single wadies. All da single wadies, all da single wadies …”

To my shock, I heard my 2 ½ year old busting out Beyonce from the rear of our minivan. I’ve only listened to that song a FEW times, I thought. I had no idea he had it memorized!

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 tells us that “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

So what’s a mom to do? Here are a few of my tried and true favorites for the car or even as background music during playtime … don’t be surprised if they touch your heart and challenge your faith as well:

CDs:
1) www.psalty.com Anything by Psalty the Singing Songbook. WELL WORTH THE INVESTMENT … buy the series and slowly give it out for birthdays and Christmases over the course of a few years. (Cheapest price is direct from Psalty himself).

2) www.agapelandmusic.com Another goldmine from the 1980s … Nathaniel and the Grublets, Antshillvania (One and Two!), Bullfrogs and Butterflies, and Music Machine are the best!

3) www.gofishguys.com You will find yourself rocking out and your kids singing along. Awesome stuff.

4) www.donutman.com Wacky, fun filled songs that teach your child about Jesus.

5)www.whitsend.org Focus on the Family’s Adventures in Odyssey is THE definitive Christian radio drama for children. The best for teaching life principles and character building. Best for ages 5 and up. (You can listen free on the radio every day as well).

So what about you? Do you have great alternatives to overplayed radio tunes or your child’s worn out CDs … hidden treasures that are well worth the $ investment for the fruit it will reap in your child’s life in years to come?

-Katherine Craddock

Amazing Speaker at Local Retreat!

2009-03-20T23:26:00.001-04:00

This two day conference looks to be amazing.

Nationally renown author and speaker, Lysa TerKeurst of Proverbs 31 Ministries, takes us on a journey of "What Happens When Women Say Yes to God."

Lysa has appeared on 700 Club, Good Morning America and Oprah Winfrey Show and is the author of several books, including: "What Happens When Women Walk in Faith", "The Bathtub is Overflowing But I Feel Drained", and "A Women's Secret to a Balanced Life".

Join us this April 24th and 25th for a time of reflection and fellowship.

Times and Details
Shepherd Gate Church in Chantilly
April 24th - doors open 6pm - program 7-9pm
April 25th - doors open 8am - program 9am-3pm
(lunch break 12-1pm)

Attendees
Open to all women from 16 years of age and up

Registration Fee
Early registration fee is $75 - if completed by April 1
Standard registration fee is $85 after April 1
Space is limited, so please register early

June Cleaver? Hah!

2009-02-26T14:02:00.002-05:00

I think so often as moms, we all have a lot to deal with. We hit the ground running every morning and don’t stop until the kids are in bed. Even then, we still have a list of to do's so long that even the most ambitious of overachievers would be overwhelmed. Then, we wake up the next day to repeat the entire process without missing a beat. No sick days (but we do get sick), no lunch breaks, and we most certainly can’t go to the bathroom without someone trying to beat down the door because they can’t live one moment without us. We are moms. A high calling. An overwhelming job...a great job.

I once had a friend ask me how I “did it.” She also has two small children and somewhere along the way I had given her the impression that I had it all together. Shame on me! I quickly explained to her that I actually end most days feeling as though I could have accomplished more and a few days like I have completely and utterly failed. But, there are those women out there that make it all seem so easy. The Stepford Wife. I am extremely jealous of that, and then I have to remind myself that it is probably all just a facade. So, as a shout out to all the other moms out there struggling to make it through until Friday without screaming into a pillow, here are my “mommy flaws.”

*I used to have a clean house…until I had 2 kids. Now, I look around at the end of the day and think about what truly NEEDS to be done. My house is often messy.
*I am a stay at home mom but I don’t love every second of it. Being a SAHM is a great privilege that I do not take for granted. But, I would be lying if I said I love every second of every day. Don't get me wrong, there are many things I love, but there are also things I struggle with a great deal.
*Sometimes, I feel like I have failed my kids entirely. Am I too much of a pushover, am I too strict, do I pick the wrong battles, do I pray for my kids enough, have I crushed their spirit, am I a complete failure?
*I have said some mean things to my kids that I have had to humbly apologize for. I think this is where I have really felt broken as a mom. In those moments when I have said something so harsh that I instantly regret it. I see the look on their faces; I crumble and beg for forgiveness.
*Sometimes, I put my own needs before my kids’ wants. Sometimes, I just need a moment to gather myself so I can be a better mom. I feel guilty doing this but realize it makes me a better mom if I have some “me time.”
*My kids watch TV. Not an insane amount, but if I need to get a meal ready and they are under my feet (screaming, whining, fighting with one another), I will most definitely turn the TV on. I also turn it on first thing in the morning so I can allow myself some time to wake up. I think it gives them a chance to wake up too.
*Some days, I get really cranky, really fast. And even if they aren’t being that frustrating, I am already frustrated. I need to work on that.
*I am not always consistent with discipline. To be honest, sometimes, I am just too exhausted to care.
*On many occasions I have been the woman in the grocery store with two screaming kids in the cart just trying to get through my list before the world explodes.

What I think is so important, as mothers, is that we give ourselves some grace and don't compare our talents to those of other moms. We all have different abilities in life and in motherhood. Take note of the things you know you are doing well as a mother, even if some days it feels like nothing. I have made a habit of telling my husband the good things that happened during the day just as a reminder to myself that it wasn't all a disaster.

Remember that June Cleaver is most certainly a fictional character and, honestly, totally boring!

Written by Jennifer Bentch, mother of 2, and MOPS mom.

Dare you to love!

2009-02-09T12:59:00.005-05:00

In light of Valentine's Day, join me in taking the 40 Day Love Dare Challenge!

Check out the link- you can have the dares dropped right in your email inbox!

http://www.familylife.com/site/c.dnJHKLNnFoG/b.4844737/k.9A2/40day_Love_Dare_Challenge.htm

A Simple Truth from a Tot

2009-01-25T12:51:00.006-05:00

My daughter will randomly and routinely throughout the day say "Mommy, I love you." I probably hear this 142 times a day although I never truly get tired of hearing it. However, one day I decided to change my answer up a bit. Instead of my typical response of "I love you too!" I asked her "Why?" She looked at me quizzingly, surprised to hear my answer. I asked her again, "Jordan, WHY do you love Mommy?" She stopped for a second, looking completely unsure of what to say. A few seconds later she looked up at me with her big brown eyes and answered "Because you're here with me!" The simple truth of that statement hit me hard.

Above everything else, our children want us to be WITH them. Our presence, our attention, our affection and our smiles are what they desire. Not toys, not even another movie, they want us- their mommies. How freeing this thought was for me. She isn't asking me to be anything but myself and to be there with her as she explores her world. Yes, there are absolutely days when it seems everyone is demanding our attention but what is important to remember is that we are investing in these cherub faces' futures. Our love and attention is building a lifelong relationship that will mean the world to this little person. Parenting is about a relationship. And like any other relationship, it takes effort, intention and time spent with that person. The fruit of that relationship is completely worth the time spent and hanging up of our own self agendas, wishes, and desires.

What an awesome responsibility and honor we have as Moms!

TKC's New Building

2008-12-01T10:59:00.004-05:00

Our new church building is open, hooray! We will have our December 12th meeting there! The address is 12925 Braddock Road, Clifton, VA. See you then!

Thankfulness Is A Journey

2008-11-18T13:21:00.000-05:00

Sometimes it feels like I am in the midst of a losing battle. Okay, a lot of times it feels that way.

For example...

I pick up toys, they come back.
I put away piles of paper, the paper comes back in larger more overwhelming stacks.
I empty (or almost empty my e-mail inbox), the e-mails flood in.
I do laundry, the laundry baskets fill up.
I clean the kitchen, people eat and mess it up.

I try to stay on top of the piles, keep them organized and under control. But there are days when the never-ending nature of these household tasks gets the best of me. They make me want to hoist the white flag of surrender from behind the dirty underwear and GIVE UP.

I was sharing my woes with my husband last night.

He thought, instead of giving up, I should...

Be thankful for the toys on the floor because they are a product of the healthy, happy children who play with them.
Be thankful for the stacks of paper because they are the result of a working household and paid bills.
Be thankful for the flood of e-mails because they represent people who value my opinion.
Be thankful for the endless laundry and dirty kitchen because they are proof that we have clothes to wear and food to eat.

Yeah, okay, so maybe he's right. Scratch that, I KNOW he’s right.

I need to change my attitude. So…

Today there will be no giving up. Today I will give thanks for all things, including my piles.

Are you with me?

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

-Taken from Hearts at Home website

Christmas Cards for Veterans

2008-11-18T13:16:00.000-05:00

When doing your Christmas cards this year, take one card and send it to this address. If we pass this on and everyone sends one card, think of how many cards these wonderful special people who have sacrificed so much would get.

When you are making out your Christmas card list this year, please include the following:
Holiday Mail for Heroes
PO Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456

Praying For Our Babes

2008-11-08T10:43:00.004-05:00

For a few months now I've been following a blog called Bring The Rain. It's written by the wife of Todd Smith, Angie, of the Christian group Selah. In essence, it's about their journey as a family after finding out, mid-way through the pregnancy of their fourth child, that the baby is incompatible with life. Their little girl, Audrey Caroline, lived for only two hours. Because of that little girl, I believe many lives were changed for eternity and His glory was immensely shown. Their journey most definitely changed my life. I would highly encourage you to one day (after the kids are put to bed for the day) log on to her blog and read the story from the very beginning. It's not a depressing Debbie Downer story, I promise. It will uplift you, make you cry, stop reading mid-through (many time!) just to go and kiss your children's foreheads. It will bring God's ways in a new light. I could sit here and type a thousands more words about this, but instead I'll leave you to read it yourself.

Now that I gave you a little bit of background, I'll get to the intention of this post. This past week Angie confessed that she doesn't nearly pray enough for her kids. Yeah, I can relate. I don't pray enough, period. So here is what he suggested:

I don't really care that much about whether or not my kids are book smart. Let me explain. I do care, I just don't care as much as I care about other things. I don't sit around and pray that my girls will learn to read today, or that they will understand a foreign language by the time they are 6, or that they will know their times table by next week. I do spend a lot of time asking God to give them "undivided hearts (Psalm 86:11), " and praying "that they will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel when they open their mouths (Ephesians 6:19)." I pray that God will help them to be good stewards of their time, their money, their words. I pray for their character, their faith, their decisions, their husbands. I want them to be wise, Godly women who chase after the Lord.

I'm thinking that instead of getting a "My kid is on the honor roll" bumper sticker, I may create a "My kid has an undivided heart" one. And then people will make ones that say "My kid kicked your 'undivided heart' kid's butt" stickers.

Maybe not.

But, the point is that one of the most important things I am privileged to do as a mother is to pray for my children every day.

The other day I came across a verse that God used to prompt me to write this post. If you are a mom (or have someone else you want to pray for specifically), I hope you will join me as I do this for the next 7 days. It struck me that I need reminders during the day to be praying over my girls, and I decided to choose 7 events in a day that would remind me to do so. Then, I chose verses that had to do with that time of the day (for example: as my kids are getting dressed in the morning) and then I put them on notecards.

Here are the events and verses I chose:
1. When they wake up: "Let the morning bring (child's name) word of your unfailing love, for she has put her trust in You. Show (her/him) the way (she/he) should go, for to you (he/she) lifts up her soul." (Adapted from Psalm 143:8)
2. When they are getting dressed: "Therefore, as God's chosen child, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Lord, help (him/her) bear with others and forgive whatever grievances (he/she) has against others. Help (him/her) forgive as the Lord forgave (him/her). And over all these virtues, help (him/her) put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." (Adapted from Colossians 3:12-14)
3. While they are eating: "Teach (child's name) the secret of being content in any and every situation whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. Teach (him/her) that (he/she) can do everything through him who gives (him/her) strength." (Adapted from Philippians 4:12-13)
4. When they go out of the house: "(Name of child), do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-His good, pleasing and perfect will." (Adapted from Romans 12:2)
5. While they are taking a bath: Lord, give (name of child) clean hands and a pure heart, and let (him/her) not lift (his/her) soul to an idol or swear by what is false. Let (him/her) receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God (his/her) Savior. Let (him/her) be part of the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob. (Adapted from Psalm 24:4-6)
6. When they are going to bed: "The Lord Your God is with you; he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, be will rejoice over you with singing." (Zephaniah 3:17)
7. While they are sleeping: "I pray that (name of child) will do everything without complaining or arguing, so that he/she may become blameless and pure, a child of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which he/she shines like a star in the universe as he/she holds out the word of life-in order that he/she may boast on the day of Christ that he/she did not run or labor for nothing." (Adapted from Philippians 2:14-16)
I feel like God has been reminding me more and more lately that I need to live my life in prayer. For my children, husband, family, friends, country, those in need, etc., etc. As a mother, it has been so pivotal for my children to hear me praying out loud over them, and I want to commit to do this every day (seven times a day!) for the next week.

I put a box link on the left side titled 7x7, so anytime you need too look at these verses & prayers, click on it and it will take you straight to it.

Lost and Found!

2008-11-07T13:15:00.003-05:00

You don't want to miss our November 14th meeting!

Our theme for November is "Lost & Found- Maintaining your own dreams and identity during Motherhood." Our very own Melanie Jeschke will be our guest speaker!

We will also be packing two shoeboxes per table for Operation Christmas Child. Please bring shoeboxes, items to stuff the boxes with and we are also asking everyone to contribute $1 each to cover the cost of shipping the boxes. Thank you for helping out with this amazing ministry that reaches out to meet the needs of children all over the world.

We will be starting promptly at 9:30 to allow plenty of time for food, conversation time, and time for our guest speaker to share with us.

We're in this together!

2008-11-07T08:40:00.001-05:00