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About Me
I am a wife to the man of my dreams! We've been married for nearly three years now and I couldn't imagine my life without him in it! I am also a mom to a seven month old daughter who I absolutely adore! I love the Lord with all my heart...without Him in my life I would not be where I am today! I am enjoying the balancing act of being a stay at home mom and wife and, together with my husband, am enjoying our wonderfully blessed life!!
Motivation For Moms
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Best Enchilada Recipe
Posted by jennasue
I have a mom who really knows how to cook!! I grew up loving so many of her meals, and have enjoyed learning the recipes to each one of them now that I'm grown and have a family of my own. Sometimes I think there are just those family recipes that live on forever. Our family's Enchilada recipe is definitely one of those that has been, and always will be passed down from generation to generation. If you're ever in the mood to try something different, take a shot at this yummy recipe...I think you'll absolutely love it as much as my family and I have over the years!
Ingredients
1 can Old El Paso Mild Enchilada Sauce (15 oz)
1 can La Preferida Mild Enchilada Sauce (10 oz)
1 can Tomato Sauce (15 oz)
1 1/2 lbs hamburger
1 lg and 1 sm can of Old El Paso Refried Beans
Taco Sauce to taste
2 Cups of Bisquick
1/2 C Water
All you need to do is mix the two enchilada sauces and the tomato sauce together (this is the sauce). Then, brown the hamburger...drain it...and mix in the refried beans and taco sauce. Finally stir the bisquick and water together, rolling it out so it is easy to work with. Roll out tortillas that are of a size that you like and place them on a skillet. Wait until one side bubbles, then flip it over and count to 10. Then...Viola...you have a yummy tortilla to put your mixture in and cover with sauce! I really enjoy this recipe and I thought others out there might as well!!
Bible Study for Mom's
Posted by jennasue
I always enjoy finding new devotionals and study guides to help me strengthen my walk with the Lord. As a mom I balance many different things in my life...everything from family to work to taking care of the house! I always appreciate finding something out there that's uplifting and encouraging, and geared specifically towards mothers! Recently I came across something very intriguing, Mom's Ordinary Day Bible Series. There are 8 volumes that can really be life changing as they cover useful topics like prayer, time management, friendship, and so much more!! One that I'm particularly interested in is the Mothering Without Guilt Bible study. I feel this one in particular would be an encouragement to me each and every day, and I definitely plan on looking into the other 7 volumes as well. Labels: Children, Faith, Motherhood, Parenting
Raising Children
Posted by jennasue
I find it very uplifting to start my days out reading my Bible and spending time with the Lord. Recently I began doing some devotions from a wonderful book I received from someone at one of my baby showers. It's titled, Devotions For Moms by Ellen Banks Elwell. Aside from this I also enjoy reading some of the prayers from my book, Whisper a Prayer For Moms. These devotionals and prayers not only help me grow deeper in my relationship with the Lord, but also help me to be a better Mom because of it. Labels: Children, Faith, Family, Motherhood, Parenting
Just today I was reading, and the topic was, "Teaching My Children". I was just talking with my mom the other day about how many things children have to deal with growing up in the world we're in today. They have many more issues surrounding them, than even I did as a young child. It got me thinking about how parents have a very important responsibility of bringing their children up in an environment where they learn about, and see God's love, so that they can grow up understanding what it means to have a personal relationship with Him and have the desire to be a follower of Jesus Christ. To me, it's one of the most important jobs a parent has.
The way we live and raise our children should reflect God's love...that means modeling patience, love, compassion, forgiveness, etc. Children learn through us...they watch us. I think it's important to remember that, even when they are babies. It's my prayer that the Lord will help me and my husband be parents who instill wisdom into our children's hearts and minds so that they can make the right decisions throughout their lives and learn what it means to KNOW Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and live for Him.
Christian Loans
Posted by jennasue
One of the big things that we're starting to see as new parents is that it takes a lot of money to have a baby in the family now. I'm staying at home, which means making sacrifices, and sometimes money is tight. It's definitely SO worth it and we are dealing with our finances as we go. It's sure nice to know that there are services out there like Christian Faith Financial, that is willing to help those in need. I came across their site and really appreciated the way they match lenders and borrowers. They're motto is that they "...help you the Christian way." which I think is absolutely wonderful!! I am very impressed with this company and all they have to offer, and believe it will be a great choice for us if we are ever in need of finding a lender for payday loans.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
Posted by jennasue
When I found out I was pregnant, I knew that I wanted to breastfeed. Now that I have my baby and have been nursing for over three months now...I can tell you that it's the best decision I could ever have made. I realize that there are circumstances where a mother cannot breastfeed for one reason or another, but I have to tell you...that if you have the opportunity and are able to breastfeed your baby...definitely give it a try! Labels: Children, Faith, Health, Motherhood, Pregnancy
I not only promote breastfeeding because it's a time to bond with your little one and the obvious convenience and affordability of it, but also because it's the way God made us and it's what's best for our babies. Breastmilk has immune boosting ingredients that help prevent babies from getting sick as easily. If a baby does get sick, it's also the best thing for them to get over the sickness. It promotes healthy brain and and body development as well. It can also be useful in helping keep babies from getting allergies, ear infections and other conditions...it even helps reduce the risk of SIDS! It is also helpful for the mother in preventing different cancers, such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and cervical cancer.
There are so many reason to consider breastfeeding your baby, many others than just the few I've mentioned here. Whether you breastfeed for 6 months, 1 year, or even longer...it's the very best thing you can do for you child! In fact, in my opinion, it's one of the absolute best gifts you can give your child!!
Buying Heaters
Posted by jennasue
When our daughter was born a few months ago, one of the first things that Scott and I talked about was how we were going to keep her bedroom warm. The house we bought this past year is older, and the cold air leaks through some of the windows. Her bedroom in particular is quite cold, especially this time of year when it's pretty bitter outside. We came to the conclusion that we would like to look into a room heater to just take the edge off. We want her to be warm enough, and not freezing when she wakes up in the morning. Seeing how our daughter is now three months old, we are not seriously looking at buying a room heater from DESA's Online Outlet. I think it will be one of the best purchases we made so far since we lived in this house...as it will help to keep our daughter as warm as possible.
Another room in our house that gets pretty cold is our family room. It's actually right by our daughter's bedroom, and gets that cool breeze this time of year. We do have a wood burning fireplace in there, but at some point would love to get a gas fireplace and those vent free gas logs. Right now we're more concerned with getting Kaelyn her room heater, but will definitely look into heating our family room down the road.
Lessons in Motherhood: 3
Posted by jennasue
Each month I try and write about a lesson in motherhood that I've learned and come to realize as important now that I am a stay at home mom. Although there are things I learn each and every day, that are crucial to me. This month it's a lesson learned about, and for myself. Remembering to take time for mom is key! Labels: Children, Faith, Family, Motherhood, Parenting
Over the past few months of being a mom I've learned so many things, but one thing I've learned that's so important to remember, is that it's important to take time for yourself. Having a baby is wonderful...I enjoy every day I get to spend with her. But sometimes it's nice just to take a moment for myself. Not only important, but crucial! Being a mother is the most important job in the world. I want to be my very best, and to do that I must take time for myself. Sometimes I just need to recharge my batteries. Whether it be taking a bath or reading my Bible, it's important to take time here and there for myself!
Although this is important, you may be saying...."But it's not an easy task to take time for yourself when you're trying to balance everything else that goes along with being a wife, a mother, and a homemaker, etc." This is true. It's not easy task, but something we truly need to work at. No matter how hectic life gets, even if you don't think you have the time, it's important to make the time. I'm not talking a whole day off or anything, just a half hour here and there.
I've learned how important this lesson really is. If you want to be the best mom that you can be, you must take time out for yourself. You deserve it!!
Baby Naptime...Useful Tips
Posted by jennasue
Over the past month or so I have come across some useful information pertaining to a subject that I am still learning about with each day that passes. What is it you ask....information about tips on a baby's nap time....I'm sure many moms, especially first time moms like myself know what an important topic this is to learn more about!! I learned a great deal from the variety of information I have come across in magazine, books and websites... and thought many other mom's would as well... Labels: Children, Health, Motherhood, Parenting
One important thing to remember is that not all baby's nap well at first. If you are finding yourself in this situation, you may want to cut back on the time that he/she is awake. Being overstimulated, or overly tired can cause babies to actually fight sleep. This is not a good situation for any mother who's ever been there before. Baby's actually have sleepy cues and we as mom's need to watch for these signs. It's important to catch a baby when they are beginning to show these signs, before they begin to fuss and fight it.
One thing that I always have been told by my mom is that letting a baby cry some isn't going to hurt them. I think this is one of the best pieces of advice that she has given me, and something I have found to be factual the more I learn about baby nap times. Now, I'm not saying let them scream for hours...but letting a baby cry for 15 minutes or so (after they are out of that newborn stage) will help teach them to self-soothe and calm themselves down on their own. This is important because a baby needs to learn how to go to sleep on his/her own! One reason why I have found this to be so important is because you don't want your baby waking up in the middle of the night, not being able to go back to sleep. They need to learn to put themselves to sleep. That's why you hear a lot of people say that you should put your baby down "sleepy, but awake". Trust me, I know it can be difficult to listen to your little one cry and fight sleep...but you'll be happy you helped them learn to self-soothe when you have a child that can sleep through the night.
My daughter is three months old right now. In the newborn stage of life, I found that it was important to let her get as much sleep as she needed. However, something I've read and learned is that sleep patterns go along with eating patterns. It works well to feed your baby, play with them a short while, and then lay them down for a nap without causing them to get overstimulated. Around two-three months of age or so, I think it's important to start letting your little one self-soothe some. I've learned that some crying at nap time and bedtime is completely normal. If your baby is crying for longer than 15 minutes or so, as mine has done from time to time...I always make sure and go check on her to make sure that she's ok. I try not to get her up though...I just rub her back.
After the point of three months I am still learning as I go obviously. However, I've read some very useful information that suggests that a child between the ages of 3-6 months should start getting into more of a routine when it comes to nap time. This may mean dropping one of their evening naps so that they sleep better at night. That made sense to me and is most likely something I will try.
As far as a child who is much older...like between the ages of one and two...I have learned after years of working in childcare and preschool settings that they typically do not need their morning nap and will likely take a longer afternoon nap.
I know there are many opinions on the subject of baby nap times, but so far in the first three months of being a mom these are some things that have worked for me, and information and tips that I have found to be useful. I am still learning as I go, but have learned that when Kaelyn gets a bit older it will be important for me to get her into more of a nap time routine..one that I develop and not her. I'll know when she has had enough rest because she will awake in a good mood...smiling and cooing as she does now when she wakes up. These are all things to consider if you're having questions about baby nap times...
Upload and Share Photos Easily
Posted by jennasue
Ever since the birth of our daughter, I find that we take many more pictures than we used to!! You could say I'm a little "Camera Happy"! I'm almost always within a reach of my camera, as there is always something new that Kaelyn is doing that I want to capture with a picture! Our camcorder has also been being used a lot more....it's so fun to capture those little coos and laughs that she's been doing lately for us.
I grew up with parents who really loved taking pictures. They took all kinds of pictures of all three of us kids, and they took some video footage as well. Knowing how much I appreciate having all of that from my childhood, makes me want to do the same for each one of my children. So far we have piles and piles of Kaelyn. I'm sure she'll really enjoy going through all of them one day.
My parents still really enjoy taking pictures, especially now that they have two new Grandchildren. Since I've begun to take so many pictures, I try and send them updated pictures every so often. They really appreciate this, as they have a "Grandchildren" album that they've started and like to share with others. I started out e-mailing the pictures to them, but this became too difficult and time consuming...as it's quite the task to send all those pics that way. In fact, most times they all can't fit into an e-mail and I end up having to send like 4 different e-mails. Needless to say it was a lot more work than I have time for! That's why I searched and found the Kodak Gallery. I really like using this, not only because it allows me to upload the pictures I've taken and share them with family and friends, but also because it makes it easy for me and those I send the pictures to, to order the prints if they want. It's so easy and much cheaper to do than going through Walmart or other places to get pictures developed. I'm SO glad I found Kodak Gallery. It's so much fun to be able to send updated pictures out with ease.. My parents appreciate it too...as it takes no time for them to go through the pictures and order the ones they want to get prints of.
Well, I better get going...as I write this I am missing a great photo opp of Kaelyn laughing at the mobile that hangs above her swing...
Part-Time Exerciser
Posted by jennasue
You could call me a "part time exerciser". I really enjoy exercising...when I have time. It gives me more energy and just gives me a feeling of being more healthy which is great! After having my daughter just a few months ago...I really was really wanting to begin exercising more. So, after some thought and consideration, my husband and I decided to purchase an elliptical machine. This is one of the only machines I've ever used that I actually enjoy using. I think the greatest thing about it is, that when I'm using it I don't feel like I am exercising. It's so easy, and the results of using it after a while are amazing! Labels: Blogging, Children, Health, Home, Making Money
When we got it I had this picture perfect plan in my head that I would use it at least 4 times a week. After having it for a while now, I have found that this was an unrealistic expectation for myself. Between taking care of Kaelyn, keeping the house clean, doing some work online, and other things that I need to get done in a weeks time...I find it very hard to fit in exercise every other day of the week. I am finding that I have become a "part time exerciser"...aka...one who exercises when she has time. This is typically 2-3 times a week as of now, which is better than the amount of exercise I was doing before....or the lack of I should say. I'm finding it difficult to get on a schedule as far as working out is concerned, but feel good any time I get the chance. As I condition myself and get more and more used to this "part time" exercise schedule...I am planning on trying to get myself out of bed a little earlier and really work on getting into a routine. As of now though...2-3 days for a half hour each time is working wonderfully! I'm so glad we decided to purchase this machine.
Vaccination Safety...A Controversial Debate
Posted by jennasue
In my opinion, one of the most controversial subjects out there among parents is that of Vaccination Safety. Since becoming a mom I have become increasingly aware of the debate that goes on between those who back giving vaccinations to our children and those who do not. When my husband and I began researching this topic during my pregnancy, we definitely were very confused as to where we stood. I mean...it's a big decision to make! There are many points made by those that back vaccinating our children that kept us on the fence. For instance, many health organizations claim that vaccinations are the best choice to help keep our children healthy and safe from diseases out there. Overtime, after doing extensive research on the matter through the web and the book, "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Children's Vaccinations", we came to the conlcusion that as responsible parents we must be advocates for our baby, that being and remaining our top priority. We feel that we are responsible adults who take much care into the decisions we make for ourselves and our daughter and have decided that at this time we are not willing to risk the side effects that can be brought on by the administration of many of the vaccinations out there.
It is my belief that vaccinations are not a cure all. They cannot guarantee immunity. In fact, children who are vaccinated continue to come down with the sicknesses that they are supposedly vaccinated against. So what is the point in risking our children's health and well being on a hope that vaccinations will keep them well?! It's hard for me to back vaccinating our young children, when it seems that with the rise in the number of vaccinations given over the past 20 years or so there has been an increase in childhood conditions such as autism, SIDS, leukemia, allergies, diabetes, and many others as well. To me it is much more than a coincidence and a decision I'm not going to take lightly when it comes to the well-being of my precious daughter. Vaccinations are not "one-size-fits-all" either. Every child is different...just because one can handle a certain vaccination does not mean another will be able to. We are all different, predisposed to different things like allergies for instance. If I must give my child a vaccination (that may or may not work) only to find out that she has a life-threatening allergy to one of the many additives in them like mercury, formaldehyde, or aluminum for instance...my position is going to be ABSOLUTELY NOT!
I have nothing against the medical profession, as they do many things to help us each and every day. I believe that they do many wonderful things to help prevent diseases and keep us safe. However, vaccines are not something I can support at this point until there is further evidence to support their effectiveness and safety for my child. I don't want to ride the fence on this subject any longer. My main objective is to do what's best for my daughter. I can't do something that goes against what I feel is right for my child just because our government or health care providers advise it. I realize that all are entitled to their opinions, just as with many other issues surrounding our world these days, and I completely respect that. This is simply a decision that we have made for our children. All are allowed and welcome to their own thoughts on this issue as well as the stance that they ultimately take.
Stay-At-Home-Mom Jobs
Posted by jennasue
Being a stay at home mom is absolutely wonderful! What a blessing it is to be home with my daughter...I can't think of a better job that is more rewarding! While I'm home I try and find different ways to make some extra income when I can. In the past with other blogs that I author I've taken advantage of different "get paid to blog" opportunities, as well as adsense inclusion on them. It's definitely a great way to make some extra money, that's for sure!! Now, however, I'm in search for new ways of making money. I like the idea of "blogging for money", but am interested in other ways stay-at-home-moms contribute to the household income a bit. If anyone has any suggestions of simple ways to make a little extra money on the side for a stay at home mom I'm all ears! :) Staying home with my daughter is a priority to me...and while I'm home with her I'd really like to make some extra income when I can. Labels: Blogging, Children, Making Money, Motherhood
Two Month Dr Appointment
Posted by jennasue
Kaelyn is 10 weeks old this week and had her two month doctor's appointment today. I always look forward to taking her to her doctor's appointments, as it's always fun to see how much she's grown since the last time we were there. Everyone tells you how quickly your babies will grow, but I didn't quite get the reality of what they were telling me until I began living it. Kaelyn gained 2 lbs in just over a month and two inches!! I was just shocked that she's already grown this much. She's 5 lbs more than when she was born and 3 inches longer. I can't believe how big she's getting...the time has just flown!!
The Little Things
Posted by jennasue
I'm sure many other mothers feel the same way....but I just have to say how much I LOVE watching Kaelyn reach new milestones as she changes and grows each and every day!! What a miracle babies are!! I thank the Lord everyday for her and the joy she brings to our lives. Whether it be something simple like smiling, cooing, rolling over, or grabbing at toys....it's always a big deal to me and so much fun to watch!! She brings so much joy...I can't even describe!! Being a mother is the best, and most important job I've ever had and I'm enjoying every minute of it. Labels: Children, Faith, Motherhood
The Big Transition....
Posted by jennasue
As I'm sure many other mom's would agree...it's a big transition moving your little one to their own room for the first time! Kaelyn is just over two months old now, so we knew it was getting to be that time when she had to go to her room and sleep in her crib, rather than in the bassinet that sits by our bed. It was really nice having her in our room, as it was very convenient to change her and feed her when she was still waking up frequently in the night. Now, however, she is getting older and sleeping through the night...what other reason do we have to keep her in our room other than mom feeling a bit of separation anxiety about the whole thing....and that's not a good reason. Labels: Children
We came to the conclusion that there is no reason why she cannot be sleeping in her own room and in her crib now...so this past Sunday night we began having her sleep in there. We wanted to wait until after the holidays were over with and our routine was back to normal. Both nights so far she's been sleeping through the night and actually wakes up happier....smiling and cooing as she looks at the mobile that hangs above her. She seems to really enjoy the change, and mom is adjusting. At first it just kept running through my mind that my little girl is in her own room all by herself. It was like I felt bad for her that she had to be in there by herself or something...I know, I know...call me odd. I'm beginning to adjust though and am glad that she took the transition so well.
Kaelyn's Christmas Gifts
Posted by jennasue
Kaelyn got some very nice things from all of the grandparents over Christmas. She got a highchair that we were really wanting for her....something I'm sure she will be using in no time! It's one of those stages highchairs that actually sits on a chair. We just love it because it doesn't take up the space a regular highchair would. She also got a Jumperoo....which she is just beginning to use and enjoy! Now that she can hold her head up better...she's starting to notice all of the lights and fun things she can play with. Another great gift she got was a play gym...one of those mats that has things hanging down for her to look at and grab. She just loves laying there listening to the music and watching the lights and the fun toys that hang down!!
New Ford Escape
Posted by jennasue
As I posted previously...one of the changes in our life since our little girl was born is the new vehicle we purchased. I am not one that wants to spend money on vehicles very often...but after Kaelyn was born Scott and I began discussing the possibility of buying a different vehicle. We were looking at SUV's as we thought these would be safer and more practical for our growing family. Just as we were beginning to talk about it, my parents told us that they were in the market for a newer SUV themselves, and that they would be selling their Ford Escape when they found one that they liked. What a blessing that was!! Scott and I had to figure out what we were going to do with the car we had at the time. Just as I was discussing it with my mom one night, her brother called her on the phone and told her that he was looking for a car for his oldest son. We worked everything out and he ended up buying our car. God is so good! He took care of us all, meeting our needs in each individual way! We now have a wonderful vehicle that our growing family will be able to use for many years!
