Creative Family Fun

Creative Family Fun http://www.entrustedministries.com/blog.aspx?site_id=10186&blog_id=253742 Check out some fun and practical ideas that will help make family life fun! If you have any helpful tips or funny family stories that you would like to share, please send it to kristi@entrustedministries.com. You may see it on our website! EN-US Copyright © 2012 Entrusted Ministries http://www.triplePixel.com Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:00:00 GMT Check out some fun and practical ideas that will help make family life fun! If you have any helpful tips or funny family stories that you would like to share, please send it to kristi@entrustedministries.com. You may see it on our website! kristi@entrustedministries.com no Fresh Veggie Sandwich http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=296169http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=296169 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/2012/Blog%20Images/Fresh%20Veggie%20Sandwich.jpg" style="float: left; margin-right: 8px; margin-bottom: 8px;" />One of our favorite sandwiches was from a local store we frequented when we lived in Chicago. Several years ago I decided to try to duplicate it so we could enjoy them whenever we had a taste for something really healthy. This recipe makes about two good-sized sandwiches so if you're making more just adjust the amounts of everything. 4 slices whole grain wheat bread, or bread of your choice 2 cups Mesculin lettuce 1/2 English cucumber, sliced thin 1 large tomato, sliced 1-2 carrots, shredded 4 slices Muenster cheese Mayonnaise (In the summer I chop fresh basil, oregano or other herbs from my garden into the mayo to give another layer of flavor to the sandwich) Salt and pepper, optional Spread bread with mayonnaise. Begin building sandwiches with lettuce, cheese, cucumber, tomato (I salt and pepper the tomatoes a little) and carrots. Adjust amounts of ingredients depending on the number of sandwiches you are making and how big you want them. Note: Feel free to be creative with adding other ingredients, i.e., fresh spinach, pesto, sprouts, sliced avocado, different cheeses or raw veggies. One of our favorite sandwiches was from a local store we frequented when we lived in Chicago. Several years ago I decided to try to duplicate it so we could enjoy them whenever we had a taste for something really healthy. This recipe makes about two good-sized sandwiches so if you're making more just adjust the amounts of everything. 4 slices whole grain wheat bread, or bread of your choice 2 cups Mesculin lettuce 1/2 English cucumber, sliced thin 1 large tomato, sliced 1-2 carrots, shredded 4 slices Muenster cheese Mayonnaise (In the summer I chop fresh basil, oregano or other herbs from my garden into the mayo to give another layer of flavor to the sandwich) Salt and pepper, optional Spread bread with mayonnaise. Begin building sandwiches with lettuce, cheese, cucumber, tomato (I salt and pepper the tomatoes a little) and carrots. Adjust amounts of ingredients depending on the number of sandwiches you are making and how big you want them. Note: Feel free to be creative with adding other ingredients, i.e., fresh spinach, pesto, sprouts, sliced avocado, different cheeses or raw veggies. Amos & Andy Cookies http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=293243http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=293243 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 15:00:00 GMT <img alt="" style="float: left; margin-right: 8px; margin-bottom: 8px;" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/2012/Blog%20Images/amos_andycookies.jpg" />This recipe takes chocolate chip cookies to a whole new level. They are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside (if you don't over bake them). The coconut adds a great consistency without giving a strong coconut flavor. And, I just break the pecans with my hands so the pieces are larger and not uniform. Whenever I bring these anywhere people ask for the recipe. 3 sticks butter, at room temperature 3/4 cup Crisco shortening 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar 2 cups granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla 4 cups flour 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda 3/4 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt 7 ounces flaked, sweetened coconut 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips 6 ounces pecans, coarsely chopped or broken Cream the butter and shortening until light and fluffy. Add brown and granulated sugar and combine well. Add eggs and vanilla and mix well. In separate bowl combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add to creamed mixture and mix well. Add coconut, chocolate chips and pecans and stir until well combined. Refrigerate until cold. Shape into 2” balls (or use a cookie scoop) and place 2 inches apart on un-greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes before removing from cookie sheets. Note: This recipe makes a large number of cookies, about six dozen. I usually mix up the cookie batter and spoon the dough onto the baking sheets and freeze. When frozen I put all the unbaked cookies in a plastic container or zip-lock bag and freeze. When I want some fresh-baked cookies, I just take the amount I need and bake them. **When baking from frozen, add about five minutes to the baking time and lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees. The baked cookies also freeze well. To make a special treat put a scoop of ice cream between two cookies and press gently to form an ice cream sandwich. Roll edges in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts. This recipe takes chocolate chip cookies to a whole new level. They are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside (if you don't over bake them). The coconut adds a great consistency without giving a strong coconut flavor. And, I just break the pecans with my hands so the pieces are larger and not uniform. Whenever I bring these anywhere people ask for the recipe. 3 sticks butter, at room temperature 3/4 cup Crisco shortening 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar 2 cups granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla 4 cups flour 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda 3/4 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt 7 ounces flaked, sweetened coconut 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips 6 ounces pecans, coarsely chopped or broken Cream the butter and shortening until light and fluffy. Add brown and granulated sugar and combine well. Add eggs and vanilla and mix well. In separate bowl combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add to creamed mixture and mix well. Add coconut, chocolate chips and pecans and stir until well combined. Refrigerate until cold. Shape into 2” balls (or use a cookie scoop) and place 2 inches apart on un-greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes before removing from cookie sheets. Note: This recipe makes a large number of cookies, about six dozen. I usually mix up the cookie batter and spoon the dough onto the baking sheets and freeze. When frozen I put all the unbaked cookies in a plastic container or zip-lock bag and freeze. When I want some fresh-baked cookies, I just take the amount I need and bake them. **When baking from frozen, add about five minutes to the baking time and lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees. The baked cookies also freeze well. To make a special treat put a scoop of ice cream between two cookies and press gently to form an ice cream sandwich. Roll edges in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts. Aunt Martha's Chili http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=282423http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=282423 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:00:00 GMT My Aunt Martha shared this recipe with me when I was first married, and it’s the only chili recipe I have ever used. If you make it the day before, the flavors get even better. And I usually double the recipe to serve for another meal later in the week or freeze for another dinner on those days I don't have time to cook. <img alt="" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/chili_auntmartha.jpg" /> 1 lb. ground beef or ground chuck 2 16 oz. cans dark red kidney beans, drained 1 green or red pepper, chopped 1 onion, chopped 1 16 oz. can crushed tomatoes 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce 1 T. chili powder 1 1/2 tsp. salt Brown ground beef, onion and green pepper in large pot until meat is browned and onion and pepper are softened. Add remaining ingredients, stir and cover pot. Simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. Note: This recipe works well in a crock pot. I sometimes add a little more tomato sauce to the recipe if it looks too dry. It's also fun to make a chili bar by filling bowls with shredded Mexican cheese, sour cream, chopped scallions, <a href="http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?entry_id=253748">Rufina's Homemade Salsa</a>, and guacamole, along with a basket filled with tortilla chips. Your family, or dinner guests, will enjoy building their own bowl of chili.   My Aunt Martha shared this recipe with me when I was first married, and it’s the only chili recipe I have ever used. If you make it the day before, the flavors get even better. And I usually double the recipe to serve for another meal later in the week or freeze for another dinner on those days I don't have time to cook. 1 lb. ground beef or ground chuck 2 16 oz. cans dark red kidney beans, drained 1 green or red pepper, chopped 1 onion, chopped 1 16 oz. can crushed tomatoes 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce 1 T. chili powder 1 1/2 tsp. salt Brown ground beef, onion and green pepper in large pot until meat is browned and onion and pepper are softened. Add remaining ingredients, stir and cover pot. Simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. Note: This recipe works well in a crock pot. I sometimes add a little more tomato sauce to the recipe if it looks too dry. It's also fun to make a chili bar by filling bowls with shredded Mexican cheese, sour cream, chopped scallions, Rufina's Homemade Salsa , and guacamole, along with a basket filled with tortilla chips. Your family, or dinner guests, will enjoy building their own bowl of chili. Lunch Box Love http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=268509http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=268509 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:00:00 GMT <img alt="" width="529" height="351" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/homemade%20candybars.jpg" /> Here is a great way to use up all those odd sizes of scrapbook paper you have left over from other projects. Not into scrapbooking? That's okay, you can also use wrapping paper or construction paper to wrap these special gifts. Then use various stamps or simply hand-write a message to glue on top before slipping it in their lunch boxes. These cute treats will get a smile on their face at lunch time! Materials needed: Bite-sized candy bars, paper cut to fit the bar, tape and your creativity! Here is a great way to use up all those odd sizes of scrapbook paper you have left over from other projects. Not into scrapbooking? That's okay, you can also use wrapping paper or construction paper to wrap these special gifts. Then use various stamps or simply hand-write a message to glue on top before slipping it in their lunch boxes. These cute treats will get a smile on their face at lunch time! Materials needed: Bite-sized candy bars, paper cut to fit the bar, tape and your creativity! Top Tech Tips for Families? http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=267008http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=267008 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/kids%20computers.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 220px; float: left; margin-right: 8px; margin-bottom: 8px;" />This past spring, while speaking at a family conference, Dave and Betsy Corning met a dynamic couple named Robbie and Denise Grimes. They were so excited to hear that the Grimeses share the same passion for Scripture Memorization! In fact, their ministry, <a href="http://www.highergroundfamily.com">Higher Ground Family</a> offers many biblical resources for families, such as a Family Devotional with Scripture Memory Songs, (coming out soon) and fun children’s DVDs that contain a biblical message. Robbie also speaks at schools on the topic of modern technology. Since we frequently receive questions on this topic from parents, we asked Robbie to share his insights with us. We will pass on to our Entrusted blog readers five today and five next week. It is such a challenge to keep on top of the latest technology advances and this is a source of real concern for many parents. For that reason, we are extremely grateful for Robbie’s expertise and for his willingness to share it with us. Get in the game — your kids already are! <h3>Robbie's Top Tech Tips for Families </h3> <ul> <li>At a minimum, set the safe search settings in your browser or computer to “Block Inappropriate Content.” There are also accountability and filtering tools, like <a href="http://www.covenanteyes.com">www.covenanteyes.com</a> and <a href="http://www.netnanny.com">www.netnanny.com</a>. These filters and controls are helpful, but don’t rely fully on them. The Internet cannot be “childproofed.” That job is up to us as parents.</li> <li>Check social networking rules for the minimum age requirement, but also use your parental judgment to determine whether your child is educated and mature enough to handle this type of social interaction. Just because 13 is the minimum age for having a Facebook page, does not mean your child is ready to be a member of the Facebook community.</li> <li>Become a member and get to know the culture of the cyber-environments your children are interested in using before they join. Be sure they understand there will be an “open-door policy” with all technology they are using. They must understand you will be their “Friend” on Facebook and MySpace, will be following them on Twitter, and will be checking in on their other friends and the communication that is happening. Your children need to know you are there to help keep them safe.</li> <li>Utilize the parental controls that are available on your child’s cell phone. Most providers have options to limit the amount and times of usage and to block specific incoming and outgoing texts or calls. Certain plans also allow you to set up a list of approved callers who can call or send text messages to your child.</li> <li>Show your children positive ways to use technology. Model the use of an online Bible tool such as <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com">www.biblegateway.com</a> or <a href="http://www.blueletterbible.org">www.blueletterbible.org</a>.  Introduce them to a new educational game available on-line like <a href="http://www.funbrain.com">www.funbrain.com</a>,  <a href="http://www.coolmath.com">www.coolmath.com</a>, <a href="http://www.exploratorium.com">www.exploratorium.com</a>, or let the creative part of their brain grow by using a site like <a href="http://www.glogster.com">www.glogster.com</a>.  </li> <li>Stress the importance of security with the technology they are using. Children should NEVER submit any personal information online unless they’ve checked with you first. Some websites require an email address and first or last names. Explain the dangers of sharing usernames and passwords with others. Additionally, ensure that your computer software is up-to-date.  This includes the updates for the operating system as well as a firewall and virus and spam protection. Some popular virus/spam programs are <a href="http://www.symantec.com">www.symantec.com</a>, <a href="http://www.norton.com">www.norton.com</a>, and <a href="http://www.mcafee.com">www.mcafee.com</a>. A free virus/spamware program can be found at <a href="http://free.avg.com">http://free.avg.com</a>. </li> </ul> This past spring, while speaking at a family conference, Dave and Betsy Corning met a dynamic couple named Robbie and Denise Grimes. They were so excited to hear that the Grimeses share the same passion for Scripture Memorization! In fact, their ministry, Higher Ground Family offers many biblical resources for families, such as a Family Devotional with Scripture Memory Songs, (coming out soon) and fun children’s DVDs that contain a biblical message. Robbie also speaks at schools on the topic of modern technology. Since we frequently receive questions on this topic from parents, we asked Robbie to share his insights with us. We will pass on to our Entrusted blog readers five today and five next week. It is such a challenge to keep on top of the latest technology advances and this is a source of real concern for many parents. For that reason, we are extremely grateful for Robbie’s expertise and for his willingness to share it with us. Get in the game — your kids already are! Robbie's Top Tech Tips for Families At a minimum, set the safe search settings in your browser or computer to “Block Inappropriate Content.” There are also accountability and filtering tools, like www.covenanteyes.com and www.netnanny.com . These filters and controls are helpful, but don’t rely fully on them. The Internet cannot be “childproofed.” That job is up to us as parents. Check social networking rules for the minimum age requirement, but also use your parental judgment to determine whether your child is educated and mature enough to handle this type of social interaction. Just because 13 is the minimum age for having a Facebook page, does not mean your child is ready to be a member of the Facebook community. Become a member and get to know the culture of the cyber-environments your children are interested in using before they join. Be sure they understand there will be an “open-door policy” with all technology they are using. They must understand you will be their “Friend” on Facebook and MySpace, will be following them on Twitter, and will be checking in on their other friends and the communication that is happening. Your children need to know you are there to help keep them safe. Utilize the parental controls that are available on your child’s cell phone. Most providers have options to limit the amount and times of usage and to block specific incoming and outgoing texts or calls. Certain plans also allow you to set up a list of approved callers who can call or send text messages to your child. Show your children positive ways to use technology. Model the use of an online Bible tool such as www.biblegateway.com or www.blueletterbible.org . Introduce them to a new educational game available on-line like www.funbrain.com , www.coolmath.com , www.exploratorium.com , or let the creative part of their brain grow by using a site like www.glogster.com . Stress the importance of security with the technology they are using. Children should NEVER submit any personal information online unless they’ve checked with you first. Some websites require an email address and first or last names. Explain the dangers of sharing usernames and passwords with others. Additionally, ensure that your computer software is up-to-date. This includes the updates for the operating system as well as a firewall and virus and spam protection. Some popular virus/spam programs are www.symantec.com ,... Playdoh Lollipops http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=258375http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=258375 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:00:00 GMT <img width="356" height="247" align="left" style="width: 356px; height: 247px;" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/playdoh%20lollipop.jpg" />I recently came across this "playdoh" recipe that is not only okay but delicious for kids to eat! My children enjoyed the process... of mixing the dough, customizing the colors, rolling it out, and shaping it into lollipops... almost as much as they enjoyed eating the finished cookies. As you can see in the picture, they made all different sizes for various people in our family including some extra small ones for their favorite stuffed animals and dolls. It was a fun and tasty summertime activity! Ingredients 3/4 cup butter, softened 3 ounces cream cheese 1 cup white sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt assorted colors of paste food coloring 24 lollipop sticks (we used wooden skewers since it's what we had on hand) Directions <ol> <li> In a bowl cream butter, cream cheese and sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; beat until smooth.</li> <li>In a medium bowl combine flour, baking powder and salt. Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. Stir till soft dough forms. Divide dough into fourths. Tint each with a different food color. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 2 hours.</li> <li>Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Working with half of each color, shape dough into 3/4 inch balls and for each cookie place 1 pink, 1 green, 1 blue and 1 orange ball together to make 1 large ball. Shape into a 12 inch long roll (like a snake), starting at one end, coil roll to make a 2 3/4 inch round cookie. Place cookies 3 inches apart on lightly greased baking sheet. Carefully insert lollipop sticks into bottoms of cookies.</li> <li>Bake cookies for 8 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool and store in an airtight container.</li> </ol> (recipe is courtesy of www.allrecipes.com) I recently came across this "playdoh" recipe that is not only okay but delicious for kids to eat! My children enjoyed the process... of mixing the dough, customizing the colors, rolling it out, and shaping it into lollipops... almost as much as they enjoyed eating the finished cookies. As you can see in the picture, they made all different sizes for various people in our family including some extra small ones for their favorite stuffed animals and dolls. It was a fun and tasty summertime activity! Ingredients 3/4 cup butter, softened 3 ounces cream cheese 1 cup white sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt assorted colors of paste food coloring 24 lollipop sticks (we used wooden skewers since it's what we had on hand) Directions In a bowl cream butter, cream cheese and sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; beat until smooth. In a medium bowl combine flour, baking powder and salt. Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. Stir till soft dough forms. Divide dough into fourths. Tint each with a different food color. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 2 hours. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Working with half of each color, shape dough into 3/4 inch balls and for each cookie place 1 pink, 1 green, 1 blue and 1 orange ball together to make 1 large ball. Shape into a 12 inch long roll (like a snake), starting at one end, coil roll to make a 2 3/4 inch round cookie. Place cookies 3 inches apart on lightly greased baking sheet. Carefully insert lollipop sticks into bottoms of cookies. Bake cookies for 8 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool and store in an airtight container. (recipe is courtesy of www.allrecipes.com) Summer Fun http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253750http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253750 Mon, 30 May 2011 13:00:00 GMT <img align="left" width="184" height="280" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/bubbles%20small.jpg" _moz_resizing="true" style="width: 184px; height: 280px; " />Summer is quickly approaching at my house…The countdown is on until my daughter completes Kindergarten, which means our family is on the brink of our first summer break now that we have entered the “school years” phase. I am approaching this season with mixed feelings—some days I am excited at the thought of having more time with my daughter at home, but admittedly there are days when my thoughts are more concerning. I moan, “what will I ever do to keep my kids entertained at home for eleven weeks ALL day?” Of course my thinking is erred because it should not be my goal as a parent to provide 24/7 stimulation and fun for my children. However, I do want to avoid prolonged hours of watching television, and hearing the dreaded, “I’m bored!” My desire is to make the most of our days together, knowing that the time I have to pour into my children slips away far too quickly. I’m gearing up to enter this summer season prepared with plans and ideas to enjoy the time together. Here are a few of the ideas I have brainstormed: Daily Activities <ul> <li>Quiet Time together. We started out the school year with a family devotional at breakfast but that habit has waned. Summer is a great time to restart that commitment, especially when the school bus is not calling! I plan to have my quiet time in the morning and during that time let my kids read Bible storybooks on their own, and then read a devotional and pray together.</li> <li>Scripture Memory. I am grateful to my own Mom who always made Scripture memory a fun part of our summer breaks. I can still remember the prizes I earned for learning Psalm 23 one summer and Psalm 139 another. I plan to review AWANA verses with my kids this summer and give them a special prize upon completion. Of course the greatest reward is God’s Word hidden in their hearts!</li> <li>Limit TV time. My goal for this summer is to try to not turn on the TV til after 4pm as a wind-down activity before supper.</li> </ul> Weekly Activities <ul> <li>Let my kids choose a recipe and make that together (alternate dessert recipes with healthier snacks and entrees).</li> <li>Write and draw pictures in a summer journal weekly or make a summer scrapbook together.</li> </ul> Special activities. Of course we will make trips to the pool, the zoo and other fun places, but I don’t want to feel like we have to leave the house for it to be a fun day. I’ve compiled a lengthy list of crafty ideas and other unusual games and activities that are low-cost and easy. Here are a few to get you started: <ul> <li>Puzzle Mania. Find every puzzle in your house and complete them all. Set a timer and see how long it takes.</li> <li>Counting Game. Make a list of household items and have your kids count how many they can find in your house (doorknobs, windows, spoons, etc).</li> <li>Create your own city using toilet paper rolls and shoeboxes.</li> <li>How many different playgrounds can you visit? Print a map of your town/surrounding area and see how many you can walk to, bike to, or drive to. Rate each for number of swings, slides, best overall, and more.</li> <li>Use all of your outdoor toys (such as hula hoops, balls, and jump ropes) to create an obstacle course for your kids.</li> </ul> So that last day of school is almost here. Are you ready? I’m excited to have extended time with the precious little ones the Lord has entrusted to me. Galatians 6:9-10 says “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Becky Armstrong lives in Palatine, IL and has two children ages 4 and 6. She has served as first a small group leader and then later as a facilitator for her church's Entrusted with a Child's Heart group. Some of her own favorite summertime activities include spending time with family and friends, scrapbooking, baking, running, and dark chocolate. <hr /> Have more ideas for summer fun with kids? Please share them below! Summer is quickly approaching at my house…The countdown is on until my daughter completes Kindergarten, which means our family is on the brink of our first summer break now that we have entered the “school years” phase. I am approaching this season with mixed feelings—some days I am excited at the thought of having more time with my daughter at home, but admittedly there are days when my thoughts are more concerning. I moan, “what will I ever do to keep my kids entertained at home for eleven weeks ALL day?” Of course my thinking is erred because it should not be my goal as a parent to provide 24/7 stimulation and fun for my children. However, I do want to avoid prolonged hours of watching television, and hearing the dreaded, “I’m bored!” My desire is to make the most of our days together, knowing that the time I have to pour into my children slips away far too quickly. I’m gearing up to enter this summer season prepared with plans and ideas to enjoy the time together. Here are a few of the ideas I have brainstormed: Daily Activities Quiet Time together. We started out the school year with a family devotional at breakfast but that habit has waned. Summer is a great time to restart that commitment, especially when the school bus is not calling! I plan to have my quiet time in the morning and during that time let my kids read Bible storybooks on their own, and then read a devotional and pray together. Scripture Memory. I am grateful to my own Mom who always made Scripture memory a fun part of our summer breaks. I can still remember the prizes I earned for learning Psalm 23 one summer and Psalm 139 another. I plan to review AWANA verses with my kids this summer and give them a special prize upon completion. Of course the greatest reward is God’s Word hidden in their hearts! Limit TV time. My goal for this summer is to try to not turn on the TV til after 4pm as a wind-down activity before supper. Weekly Activities Let my kids choose a recipe and make that together (alternate dessert recipes with healthier snacks and entrees). Write and draw pictures in a summer journal weekly or make a summer scrapbook together. Special activities. Of course we will make trips to the pool, the zoo and other fun places, but I don’t want to feel like we have to leave the house for it to be a fun day. I’ve compiled a lengthy list of crafty ideas and other unusual games and activities that are low-cost and easy. Here are a few to get you started: Puzzle Mania. Find every puzzle in your house and complete them all. Set a timer and see how long it takes. Counting Game. Make a list of household items and have your kids count how many they can find in your house (doorknobs, windows, spoons, etc). Create your own city using toilet paper rolls and shoeboxes. How many different playgrounds can you visit? Print a map of your town/surrounding area and see how many you can walk to, bike to, or drive to. Rate each for number of swings, slides, best overall, and more. Use all of your outdoor toys (such as hula hoops, balls, and jump ropes) to create an obstacle course for your kids. So that last day of school is almost here. Are you ready? I’m excited to have extended time with the precious little ones the Lord has entrusted to me. Galatians 6:9-10 says “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Becky... Christian, Parenting, Family, Creative Activities Chicken Imperial and Rice Pilaf http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253749http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253749 Tue, 03 May 2011 15:00:00 GMT My sister shared this recipe with me years ago and it’s been a family favorite ever since. This is a wonderful, make-ahead main course that makes the house smell so good while baking in the oven. I always serve it with Rice Pilaf, recipe below. <img align="left" width="250" height="334" style="width: 250px; height: 334px;" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/Chicken%20Imperial.jpg" /> <h2>Chicken Imperial </h2> 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs or Panko 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 1/8 tsp. pepper 1/2 tsp. salt 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley Mix together in shallow bowl and set aside. 12 T. melted butter (1 1/2 sticks) 3 cloves minced garlic Mix together in shallow bowl and set aside. 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, flattened 16 oz. fresh spinach, steamed and drained well Dip each flattened chicken breast in the butter/garlic mixture, then in the breadcrumb mixture. Tuck a small amount of spinach under chicken breast before putting in un-greased baking dish. Pour any remaining butter over all the chicken in the baking dish. Squeeze juice of one lemon over the chicken and sprinkle with Paprika. Cover with foil and bake in a 350 degree oven for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes. Note: I have made this recipe using seasoned breadcrumbs, but prefer the taste of the plain breadcrumbs. Also if your family doesn't like spinach you may omit it. <h2>Rice Pilaf</h2> This recipe was a staple in the Armenian home where I grew up. We never had chicken without having Rice Pilaf. This side dish always brings back fond memories for me - it’s one of my “comfort foods”. 1 cup long-grain rice (my favorite is Uncle Ben’s) 1 14 1/2 oz. can chicken broth 1/2 cup thin egg noodles 3 T. butter 1/2 tsp. salt In a medium saucepan, melt butter and add egg noodles. Brown noodles over a low heat – watch that they don’t burn. Add rice and salt. Add enough water to the chicken broth to make two cups. Add to the rice and noodles and stir until well incorporated. Cook until broth comes to a low boil, cover saucepan and lower heat to simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning off the heat before all the broth is absorbed. The rice will continue to cook and absorb the remaining broth. Makes about four servings. My sister shared this recipe with me years ago and it’s been a family favorite ever since. This is a wonderful, make-ahead main course that makes the house smell so good while baking in the oven. I always serve it with Rice Pilaf, recipe below. Chicken Imperial 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs or Panko 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 1/8 tsp. pepper 1/2 tsp. salt 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley Mix together in shallow bowl and set aside. 12 T. melted butter (1 1/2 sticks) 3 cloves minced garlic Mix together in shallow bowl and set aside. 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, flattened 16 oz. fresh spinach, steamed and drained well Dip each flattened chicken breast in the butter/garlic mixture, then in the breadcrumb mixture. Tuck a small amount of spinach under chicken breast before putting in un-greased baking dish. Pour any remaining butter over all the chicken in the baking dish. Squeeze juice of one lemon over the chicken and sprinkle with Paprika. Cover with foil and bake in a 350 degree oven for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes. Note: I have made this recipe using seasoned breadcrumbs, but prefer the taste of the plain breadcrumbs. Also if your family doesn't like spinach you may omit it. Rice Pilaf This recipe was a staple in the Armenian home where I grew up. We never had chicken without having Rice Pilaf. This side dish always brings back fond memories for me - it’s one of my “comfort foods”. 1 cup long-grain rice (my favorite is Uncle Ben’s) 1 14 1/2 oz. can chicken broth 1/2 cup thin egg noodles 3 T. butter 1/2 tsp. salt In a medium saucepan, melt butter and add egg noodles. Brown noodles over a low heat – watch that they don’t burn. Add rice and salt. Add enough water to the chicken broth to make two cups. Add to the rice and noodles and stir until well incorporated. Cook until broth comes to a low boil, cover saucepan and lower heat to simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning off the heat before all the broth is absorbed. The rice will continue to cook and absorb the remaining broth. Makes about four servings. Christian, Family, Parenting, Recipes, Creative Rufina's Homemade Salsa http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253748http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253748 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 17:00:00 GMT When our daughter was in college she brought a girlfriend home with her for a visit. Rufina's family owned a Mexican restaurant and she taught us how to make the salsa they served to their patrons. It's become our favorite salsa and makes enough for a whole week of snacking. <img align="left" width="255" height="339" _moz_resizing="true" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/salsa.jpg" />3 28 oz. cans Italian plum tomatoes (I drain most of the juice from each can and save it in the freezer for marinara sauce) 1 clove garlic, minced 1 bunch cilantro, chopped 1 medium sweet onion, cut in quarters 1 jalapeno seeded and cut into quarters (use more if you like a hot, spicy, salsa) 2 tsp. kosher salt (or more to taste) Juice of one lime In a food processor, chop the tomatoes -- one can at a time so you have more control over the size of the chopped tomatoes. Pour into a large bowl. Put onion and jalapeno in small saucepan and cover with water. Simmer until fork tender. Drain and chop fine, or add to tomatoes in food processor to chop. Add remaining ingredients to chopped tomatoes in bowl and mix. Adjust seasonings to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use. Note: I chop the cilantro by hand rather than putting it in the food processor because it keeps the intense flavor of the herb. This salsa is wonderful served with tortilla chips. I also like to have some on hand when I make a breakfast casserole or scrambled eggs for breakfast. Enjoy! When our daughter was in college she brought a girlfriend home with her for a visit. Rufina's family owned a Mexican restaurant and she taught us how to make the salsa they served to their patrons. It's become our favorite salsa and makes enough for a whole week of snacking. 3 28 oz. cans Italian plum tomatoes (I drain most of the juice from each can and save it in the freezer for marinara sauce) 1 clove garlic, minced 1 bunch cilantro, chopped 1 medium sweet onion, cut in quarters 1 jalapeno seeded and cut into quarters (use more if you like a hot, spicy, salsa) 2 tsp. kosher salt (or more to taste) Juice of one lime In a food processor, chop the tomatoes -- one can at a time so you have more control over the size of the chopped tomatoes. Pour into a large bowl. Put onion and jalapeno in small saucepan and cover with water. Simmer until fork tender. Drain and chop fine, or add to tomatoes in food processor to chop. Add remaining ingredients to chopped tomatoes in bowl and mix. Adjust seasonings to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use. Note: I chop the cilantro by hand rather than putting it in the food processor because it keeps the intense flavor of the herb. This salsa is wonderful served with tortilla chips. I also like to have some on hand when I make a breakfast casserole or scrambled eggs for breakfast. Enjoy! Christian, Family, Parenting, Recipe Laundry, Laundry, Laundry! http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253747http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253747 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:00:00 GMT <img alt="" align="left" width="185" height="278" _moz_resizing="true" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/laundry%20small.jpg" />Every family has it. Some of us like to let it pile high throughout the week before tackling it all in one or two days. Some of us prefer to wash smaller loads each day. And some of us like to just close our eyes tightly and wish for the Laundry Fairy to come and take it all away! In our home, each of my three children was assigned a specific colored laundry basket and hangers. They all knew to bring their baskets of dirty laundry and empty hangers to the laundry room every Sunday night. For at least the following day, (all of my close friends knew Monday was my laundry day!) I would wash all the clothing and iron whatever pieces needed some extra attention. I would then place the clean clothing back in the kid's bins and on their color-coded hangers. This allowed us to keep similar pieces of clothing with their owners and in turn helped eliminate possible confusion and squabbles! After returning home from school on Tuesday, the children could pick up their color-coded bins and hangers of freshly-washed clothing from the laundry room. Then it was their responsibility to return clean clothing to their drawers and closets. During each of my children's senior year of high school, I taught them to do their OWN laundry. After that, it was their turn to enjoy this weekly task! We'd love to hear your ideas about staying on top of your laundry. Use the link below to share your tips! Every family has it. Some of us like to let it pile high throughout the week before tackling it all in one or two days. Some of us prefer to wash smaller loads each day. And some of us like to just close our eyes tightly and wish for the Laundry Fairy to come and take it all away! In our home, each of my three children was assigned a specific colored laundry basket and hangers. They all knew to bring their baskets of dirty laundry and empty hangers to the laundry room every Sunday night. For at least the following day, (all of my close friends knew Monday was my laundry day!) I would wash all the clothing and iron whatever pieces needed some extra attention. I would then place the clean clothing back in the kid's bins and on their color-coded hangers. This allowed us to keep similar pieces of clothing with their owners and in turn helped eliminate possible confusion and squabbles! After returning home from school on Tuesday, the children could pick up their color-coded bins and hangers of freshly-washed clothing from the laundry room. Then it was their responsibility to return clean clothing to their drawers and closets. During each of my children's senior year of high school, I taught them to do their OWN laundry. After that, it was their turn to enjoy this weekly task! We'd love to hear your ideas about staying on top of your laundry. Use the link below to share your tips! Christian, Family, Parenting, Organization, Home Artisan Bread http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253746http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253746 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 17:00:00 GMT If you've always been a little hesitant about making anything with yeast, this is the bread for you. I mix the dough and let it rise the night before I am going to bake it, but this fool-proof bread could not be easier. And the results are so delicious. The first attempt produces a beautiful and tasty loaf of bread. And, another bonus, if you have any leftover bread you can make yummy croutons (recipe follows). <img src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/Artisan%20Bread.jpg" /> <h2>Artisan Bread</h2> 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour, more for dusting 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast 1 1/2 teaspoon salt <ol> <li>In a large bowl combine flour, yeast and salt. Add 1 5/8 cups water and stir until blended; dough will be shaggy and sticky. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let dough rest at least 12 hours, preferably about 18 hours, at warm room temperature, about 70 degrees. (I place the bowl in my unheated oven). </li> <li>Dough is ready when its surface is dotted with bubbles. Lightly flour a work surface and place dough on it; sprinkle it with a little more flour and fold it over on itself once or twice. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rest about 15 minutes.</li> <li>Using just enough flour to keep dough from sticking to work surface or to your fingers, gently and quickly shape dough into a ball. Generously coat a cotton towel (not terry cloth) with flour; put dough seam side down on towel and dust with more flour. Cover with another towel and let rise for about 2 hours. When it is ready, dough will be more than double in size and will not readily spring back when poked with a finger.</li> <li>At least a half-hour before dough is ready, heat oven to 450 degrees. Put a 6 60 8 quart heavy covered pot (cast iron, enamel, Pyrex, ceramic or dutch oven) in oven as it heats. When dough is ready carefully remove pot from oven. Slide your hand under towel and turn dough over into pot, seam side up; it may look like a mess but that is okay. Shake pan once or twice if dough is unevenly distributed; it will straighten out as it bakes. Cover with lid and bake 30 minutes, then remove lid and bake another 15 to 30 minutes, until loaf is beautifully browned. Cool on a rack. </li> </ol> Yield: One 1 1/2 pound loaf. <h2>Croutons</h2> Leftover bread Extra-virgin olive oil Kosher salt Slice bread into 1/2 inch cubes and place in large bowl. Sprinkle with 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil and kosher salt, to taste. Toss to distribute oil and salt. Spread cubes of bread onto a shallow baking pan making sure they are spread out properly. Bake at 375 degrees for approximately 20-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Store in an airtight container and enjoy as a snack or on salads or soups. Note: you might try adding other seasons like fresh cracked pepper, dried oregano, garlic powder or parmesan cheese. Enjoy! If you've always been a little hesitant about making anything with yeast, this is the bread for you. I mix the dough and let it rise the night before I am going to bake it, but this fool-proof bread could not be easier. And the results are so delicious. The first attempt produces a beautiful and tasty loaf of bread. And, another bonus, if you have any leftover bread you can make yummy croutons (recipe follows). Artisan Bread 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour, more for dusting 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast 1 1/2 teaspoon salt In a large bowl combine flour, yeast and salt. Add 1 5/8 cups water and stir until blended; dough will be shaggy and sticky. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let dough rest at least 12 hours, preferably about 18 hours, at warm room temperature, about 70 degrees. (I place the bowl in my unheated oven). Dough is ready when its surface is dotted with bubbles. Lightly flour a work surface and place dough on it; sprinkle it with a little more flour and fold it over on itself once or twice. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rest about 15 minutes. Using just enough flour to keep dough from sticking to work surface or to your fingers, gently and quickly shape dough into a ball. Generously coat a cotton towel (not terry cloth) with flour; put dough seam side down on towel and dust with more flour. Cover with another towel and let rise for about 2 hours. When it is ready, dough will be more than double in size and will not readily spring back when poked with a finger. At least a half-hour before dough is ready, heat oven to 450 degrees. Put a 6 60 8 quart heavy covered pot (cast iron, enamel, Pyrex, ceramic or dutch oven) in oven as it heats. When dough is ready carefully remove pot from oven. Slide your hand under towel and turn dough over into pot, seam side up; it may look like a mess but that is okay. Shake pan once or twice if dough is unevenly distributed; it will straighten out as it bakes. Cover with lid and bake 30 minutes, then remove lid and bake another 15 to 30 minutes, until loaf is beautifully browned. Cool on a rack. Yield: One 1 1/2 pound loaf. Croutons Leftover bread Extra-virgin olive oil Kosher salt Slice bread into 1/2 inch cubes and place in large bowl. Sprinkle with 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil and kosher salt, to taste. Toss to distribute oil and salt. Spread cubes of bread onto a shallow baking pan making sure they are spread out properly. Bake at 375 degrees for approximately 20-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Store in an airtight container and enjoy as a snack or on salads or soups. Note: you might try adding other seasons like fresh cracked pepper, dried oregano, garlic powder or parmesan cheese. Enjoy! Christian, Family, Parenting, Creative, Recipes Fun and Easy Dessert Displays http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253744http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253744 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 17:00:00 GMT Both of my daughters really enjoy baking. When my younger daughter, Stephanie, was pregnant last year her sister, Jennifer, created this dessert table for her baby shower. One of the displays is filled with mini-cupcakes held in place with long toothpicks. It ended up looking like a big bouquet of flowers. The other has chocolate-dipped marshmallows-on-a-stick decorated with sprinkles. Not only were they pretty to look at, but it was so much fun choosing items from the decorative urns to eat. This is an easy project, especially if you prepare the urns ahead of time. And, you can use them over and over again for other dessert displays. <img src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/Dessert%20Display.jpg" /> <h2>Dessert Displays</h2> Items you will need: <ul> <li> Small to medium-size decorative urns</li> <li> 1 styrofoam ball, making sure the circumference is the size that fits the opening of the urn</li> <li> Glue gun</li> <li> Florist pins</li> <li> Any type of moss sheets or loose moss</li> </ul> 1. Prepare urn by making sure it is clean and dry (you will be displaying food items in these). 2. With heated glue gun run a bead of glue around the top inside circle of the urn. 3. Place styrofoam ball so that the glue is meeting all the edges of the ball, where half the ball is above the top of the urn. If the styrofoam ball is a bit small you may need to build up the interior space with supports to hold the ball in place, i.e., styrofoam bricks, lots of crumpled paper, stones, etc. This will help support the ball as it is drying. Remember, whatever you use as a support will need to stay in the urn. When the ball is securely in place, and the glue dry you may now begin the process of adding moss to cover the styrofoam ball. 4. To do this you will need to cover the styrofoam ball with more glue and start covering the ball with the moss. You may even use florist pins to secure the moss in place. Just make sure the pins are hidden under the moss. Let dry for several hours or overnight. These are now the perfect vessels to use on a dessert table for displaying mini cupcakes or chocolate-dipped marshmallows on long sticks. <h2>Chocolate-covered Marshmallows-on-a-Stick</h2> 2 cups chocolate chips 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 bag large marshmallows Extra long wooden sticks Colorful sprinkles Chopped nuts Coconut Graham cracker crumbs 1. Prepare marshmallows by pushing a wooden stick about three quarters of the way through each marshmallow. At the same time ready your toppings by placing them in dipping bowls. 2. Place chocolate and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl (preferably glass) and cook on low for about one minute. Run a spoon through the chocolate to see if it is melting and add additional time until the chocolate is smooth and creamy. 3. Dip each marshmallow-on-a-stick in the melted chocolate and roll in the toppings of your choice. When done place on a cookie sheet and cool in the refrigerator for about ten minutes, or until the chocolate is set. Both of my daughters really enjoy baking. When my younger daughter, Stephanie, was pregnant last year her sister, Jennifer, created this dessert table for her baby shower. One of the displays is filled with mini-cupcakes held in place with long toothpicks. It ended up looking like a big bouquet of flowers. The other has chocolate-dipped marshmallows-on-a-stick decorated with sprinkles. Not only were they pretty to look at, but it was so much fun choosing items from the decorative urns to eat. This is an easy project, especially if you prepare the urns ahead of time. And, you can use them over and over again for other dessert displays. Dessert Displays Items you will need: Small to medium-size decorative urns 1 styrofoam ball, making sure the circumference is the size that fits the opening of the urn Glue gun Florist pins Any type of moss sheets or loose moss 1. Prepare urn by making sure it is clean and dry (you will be displaying food items in these). 2. With heated glue gun run a bead of glue around the top inside circle of the urn. 3. Place styrofoam ball so that the glue is meeting all the edges of the ball, where half the ball is above the top of the urn. If the styrofoam ball is a bit small you may need to build up the interior space with supports to hold the ball in place, i.e., styrofoam bricks, lots of crumpled paper, stones, etc. This will help support the ball as it is drying. Remember, whatever you use as a support will need to stay in the urn. When the ball is securely in place, and the glue dry you may now begin the process of adding moss to cover the styrofoam ball. 4. To do this you will need to cover the styrofoam ball with more glue and start covering the ball with the moss. You may even use florist pins to secure the moss in place. Just make sure the pins are hidden under the moss. Let dry for several hours or overnight. These are now the perfect vessels to use on a dessert table for displaying mini cupcakes or chocolate-dipped marshmallows on long sticks. Chocolate-covered Marshmallows-on-a-Stick 2 cups chocolate chips 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 bag large marshmallows Extra long wooden sticks Colorful sprinkles Chopped nuts Coconut Graham cracker crumbs 1. Prepare marshmallows by pushing a wooden stick about three quarters of the way through each marshmallow. At the same time ready your toppings by placing them in dipping bowls. 2. Place chocolate and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl (preferably glass) and cook on low for about one minute. Run a spoon through the chocolate to see if it is melting and add additional time until the chocolate is smooth and creamy. 3. Dip each marshmallow-on-a-stick in the melted chocolate and roll in the toppings of your choice. When done place on a cookie sheet and cool in the refrigerator for about ten minutes, or until the chocolate is set. Christian, Parenting, Family, Activities, Creative Tea Party with Dad http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253753http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253753 Fri, 03 Dec 2010 19:00:00 GMT Mom was out for a few hours and Dad was in charge. Maria, age two and a half, was playing with one of her favorite toys, her tea set. Daddy was in the living room engrossed in the evening news while cute little Maria brought him a tiny tea cup filled with water. After several "cups of tea" and lots of praise for such yummy tea, Mom came home. Dad said to her, “Honey, wait right here and watch what Maria is doing. It’s the cutest thing!” Mom waited and sure enough, Maria came down the hall with another cup of tea for Daddy and she watched him playfully drink it all up. Then Mom said, “Sweetheart, did it ever occur to you that the only place that Maria can reach to get water is the toilet?” Mothers know! <img width="420" height="279" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/00402057.jpg" _moz_resizing="true" /> Mom was out for a few hours and Dad was in charge. Maria, age two and a half, was playing with one of her favorite toys, her tea set. Daddy was in the living room engrossed in the evening news while cute little Maria brought him a tiny tea cup filled with water. After several "cups of tea" and lots of praise for such yummy tea, Mom came home. Dad said to her, “Honey, wait right here and watch what Maria is doing. It’s the cutest thing!” Mom waited and sure enough, Maria came down the hall with another cup of tea for Daddy and she watched him playfully drink it all up. Then Mom said, “Sweetheart, did it ever occur to you that the only place that Maria can reach to get water is the toilet?” Mothers know! Christian Parenting, Family, Humor, Children Capture It! http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=254103http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=254103 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 13:00:00 GMT My parents did a great job of preserving memories for my brother and me in photographs. Fun pictures by our front steps and beside the occasional grassy Alabama snowman chronicle our growth. They also memorialize my green bell bottoms and toothless grin in the late 70s and the height of my bangs in the 80s. It's so much fun to go back through these slides and photo albums with my own children when we visit Dad and Mom. One of the things we all enjoy the most is listening to interviews my Dad occasionally recorded with my brother and me when we were children. These snippets of audio capture the funny way I said elphanant, I mean, elephant and clearly show the way I viewed and thought about life in those earlier years. Now it's our turn to preserve this gift for our own children. Sometimes we capture their words in a more natural, low profile way while lying in bed with them at night discreetly recording their responses with the concealed microphone of a cell phone or mp3 player. And other times, we've been more obvious about the interview by bringing out our digital camera or webcam and allowing them an opportunity to be the star performer. Want to try this with your own kids? Click <a target="_blank" href="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content.aspx?site_id=10186&content_id=224780">HERE</a> for some questions to help you get started. Select the ones you like and add in your own to customize the interview for the ages and personalities of your children. Who knows you might even learn some things you never knew about them! <img width="342" height="250" _moz_resizing="true" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/00430840.jpg" /> My parents did a great job of preserving memories for my brother and me in photographs. Fun pictures by our front steps and beside the occasional grassy Alabama snowman chronicle our growth. They also memorialize my green bell bottoms and toothless grin in the late 70s and the height of my bangs in the 80s. It's so much fun to go back through these slides and photo albums with my own children when we visit Dad and Mom. One of the things we all enjoy the most is listening to interviews my Dad occasionally recorded with my brother and me when we were children. These snippets of audio capture the funny way I said elphanant , I mean, elephant and clearly show the way I viewed and thought about life in those earlier years. Now it's our turn to preserve this gift for our own children. Sometimes we capture their words in a more natural, low profile way while lying in bed with them at night discreetly recording their responses with the concealed microphone of a cell phone or mp3 player. And other times, we've been more obvious about the interview by bringing out our digital camera or webcam and allowing them an opportunity to be the star performer. Want to try this with your own kids? Click HERE for some questions to help you get started. Select the ones you like and add in your own to customize the interview for the ages and personalities of your children. Who knows you might even learn some things you never knew about them! Christian, Parenting, Children, Resources Dinner Pants http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=254102http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=254102 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 13:00:00 GMT Have you ever thought of an invention that you think the world must have? My daughter and her husband think that their idea of "dinner pants" are a household necessity. Adam and Emily have four children eight and under. They have mentally invented "dinner pants" that would velcro the seats of their children to their chairs to prevent sliding off and the usual fidgeting, not to mention half the dinner on the floor! Their children understand this concept, so when Mom and Dad say to put on your dinner pants, that means to sit properly in your chair while eating. <img width="493" height="329" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/dinner.jpg" _moz_resizing="true" /> Have you ever thought of an invention that you think the world must have? My daughter and her husband think that their idea of "dinner pants" are a household necessity. Adam and Emily have four children eight and under. They have mentally invented "dinner pants" that would velcro the seats of their children to their chairs to prevent sliding off and the usual fidgeting, not to mention half the dinner on the floor! Their children understand this concept, so when Mom and Dad say to put on your dinner pants, that means to sit properly in your chair while eating. Christian, Parenting, Children, Tips The Idea Jar http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253834http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253834 Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:00:00 GMT <img align="left" width="225" height="337" _moz_resizing="true" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/kids_swing.jpg" />“Mom.... I bored!…” Have you heard it yet this summer?... I have. One day while my children were happily playing, I used the time to brainstorm a list of things I thought they’d enjoy doing. Later, I wrote these ideas on colorful strips of paper, folded them, and placed them in a glass jar which has become known in our family as the “Idea Jar.” There are two rules to the Idea Jar. Rule 1 -- if you complain, “I’m bored,” then Mom gets to assign you a job. But if you have searched for your own ideas first and still found the fun beginning to lag, then you can draw a card from the Idea Jar. Just remember Rule 2 -- you HAVE to do whatever your card says. Some of our cards are purely fun. 1. Create a “car wash” for bikes. 2. Design an obstacle course. Try using a stop watch to see who can finish in the shortest time. 3. Use a box or jar to create a home for bugs. Now find at least 3 bugs to live in it. One color is specifically designed for rainy-day fun. 1. Ask Mom for blue painter’s tape to make an indoor hopscotch board. 2. Go for a swim in the bathtub. Don’t forget your goggles! 3. Do two puzzles. Want to do more? Try creating a gallery. Some offer an academic twist. 1. Read for 15 minutes – try finding an interesting, new reading place. 2. Write a story – ask Mom or Dad for an idea. 3. Write a note or make a card. Now mail it. And others mostly benefit Mom! 1. Get to work – ask Mom or Dad for a job. 2. Turn up your music and clean your room. 3. Spend 15 minutes of quiet time in your room. These ideas were designed for my young daughters, but with a little thought, the selection could be tailored to fit the ages and interests of any child. Perhaps if you create your own jar, you’ll find like I have that once kids get started on one of the ideas, they typically go beyond the instructions to add their own creative flair. Then before they realize it, 15 minutes of fun has turned into an hour or more of play time! “Mom.... I bored!…” Have you heard it yet this summer?... I have. One day while my children were happily playing, I used the time to brainstorm a list of things I thought they’d enjoy doing. Later, I wrote these ideas on colorful strips of paper, folded them, and placed them in a glass jar which has become known in our family as the “Idea Jar.” There are two rules to the Idea Jar. Rule 1 -- if you complain, “I’m bored,” then Mom gets to assign you a job. But if you have searched for your own ideas first and still found the fun beginning to lag, then you can draw a card from the Idea Jar. Just remember Rule 2 -- you HAVE to do whatever your card says. Some of our cards are purely fun. 1. Create a “car wash” for bikes. 2. Design an obstacle course. Try using a stop watch to see who can finish in the shortest time. 3. Use a box or jar to create a home for bugs. Now find at least 3 bugs to live in it. One color is specifically designed for rainy-day fun. 1. Ask Mom for blue painter’s tape to make an indoor hopscotch board. 2. Go for a swim in the bathtub. Don’t forget your goggles! 3. Do two puzzles. Want to do more? Try creating a gallery. Some offer an academic twist. 1. Read for 15 minutes – try finding an interesting, new reading place. 2. Write a story – ask Mom or Dad for an idea. 3. Write a note or make a card. Now mail it. And others mostly benefit Mom! 1. Get to work – ask Mom or Dad for a job. 2. Turn up your music and clean your room. 3. Spend 15 minutes of quiet time in your room. These ideas were designed for my young daughters, but with a little thought, the selection could be tailored to fit the ages and interests of any child. Perhaps if you create your own jar, you’ll find like I have that once kids get started on one of the ideas, they typically go beyond the instructions to add their own creative flair. Then before they realize it, 15 minutes of fun has turned into an hour or more of play time! Christian, Parenting, Children, Summer, Creative, Fun, Ideas Praise the Lord Crackers http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253848http://www.entrustedministries.com/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10186&entry_id=253848 Fri, 11 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT My 4 year-old son, Jason, announced one day at lunch that he couldn't eat his soup because I didn't give him the "Praise the Lord" crackers. After much head-scratching and further questioning, I realized he meant oyster crackers, which resemble communion crackers at our church. We now always serve our soup with "Praise the Lord" crackers! -- Lisa, mother of 10 <img width="340" height="425" src="http://www.entrustedministries.com/Content/10186/Blog%20Images/soup.jpg" _moz_resizing="true" /> My 4 year-old son, Jason, announced one day at lunch that he couldn't eat his soup because I didn't give him the "Praise the Lord" crackers. After much head-scratching and further questioning, I realized he meant oyster crackers, which resemble communion crackers at our church. We now always serve our soup with "Praise the Lord" crackers! -- Lisa, mother of 10