Our Four Kids and It Movie Premiere Reunion With Friends

The 411:

I love my daughter’s friends so I invited them over for a movie review/lunch/reunion get together. They were very happy for the opportunity to hang out and when lunch and snacks are provided it is an easy sell.

We Door Dashed lunch and since it is impossible in my neck of the woods, I used my work address and met them in the parking lot.  

Getting them to stop talking at the table took some time. It has been months since they have been together but eventually they all came over to the living room.

I put a blanket down on the floor so that the kids could maintain social distancing but they all ended up on the blanket eventually. 

Sooo these kids are ages, 14, 15 and 17 so they are not necessary the age group the film makers had in mind but it was so fun listening to these kids talk about the movie as we watched. 

A couple meet at a vacation home with their kids but the kids don’t know these two have been dating. Both sets of kids have been hoping for the family to get back together. Needless to say the kids are upset, disappointed and kinda pissed off. As a parent I couldn’t imagine doing this to my kids. Springing a boyfriend/girlfriend surprise on them while they are hoping their families get back together would not have been my route but you do you.

Tony immediately decided  the storyline arc only 10 minutes into the movie.

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The teens had a good time laughing and talking about the families.  They were concerned that there were a few times the parents were a little to frisky to be a kid movie but I told them it was fine it was only because they were older that they got the couple sinking down below the counter in the kitchen or laying on the beach waiting for their opportunity to be alone. They were also concerned that the parents never seemed very worried that the kids were gone for long periods of time. I honestly had a blast listening to them and haven’t laughed that hard in a long time. It was the perfect way to spend the day.

The movie is perfect for a family movie and I think that these kids will be talking about it for a long time. As I drove them home they were talking about it although their review wasn’t stellar after seeing it. Teens are funny like that.

Tony’s review immediately after watching. He is 15 years old.

“Why? Was the camera so bouncy? Couldn’t they put it on a tripod. It made me crazy how jumpy it was. There are parts in the movie that I don’t think are kid friendly although the youngest kid had one of the best lines, “my father left us for a 20 year old with a tight tushy. 

The antagonist was baffling. The villain didn’t have a single good line in the entire movie. The only comedic relief came at the 3rd act where birds pooped on his head as he was climbing up a cliff.“

Tony when It first came on the screen

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Personally I think the kids had a great time and they have some inside jokes that they were saying will last them a lifetime “suckable toes” (The creature had toes that they could not stop discussing).  So while I agree with some of Tony’s insight I myself LOVE Russell Brand. I also loved the magic moments that the kids had in the movie and think families will find it hysterical that the “IT” needs to puff up to grant a wish.  I found it cute and told the kids that if they had a good time, it was a good movie. 

My Life In Pictures May 8 - 16, 2020

May 8 - Pizza Friday means another trip to the pizzeria. My son eats a pie by himself so he doesn't' mind running in to grab them.  My daughter gets the door for him. Honestly, this may be the only time they work together on anything.

May 9 - Yes! That is a dusting of snow. So weird to have snow in May. My poor plants are very upset. We lost all the basil.

May 10 - We are saying goodbye to my Explorer. She served us well and we got her for free from my sister-in-law. I will truly miss her!

May 11 - My son turned 17. It has been a weird year but we had a mini parade thanks to the Police and EMS crews in my town.  He enjoyed his parade and two of my co-workers were nice enough to join it as well as a neighbor. Very sweet and he was so excited to get balloons, donuts, popcorn and candy bars as well as a handmade card from my co-worker.

May 12 - Me but better. Thank you Snapchat!!!

May 13 - This is probably one of my favorite sketches! She is adorable and I don't hate it. 

May 14 - I am so proud of my daughter's work. Look at this art project she had to do while homeschooling during the quarantine. Soooo good!

May 15 - NOTHING.

May 16 - My new car! Isn't she pretty. I am so gonna miss my Explorer but I love all the bells and whistles

My Life In Pictures - May 1 - May 7

May 1 - The "New Normal". I don't like it. I want my old normal but my son looks adorable even though I can only see his ear, neck and arms. He is wearing one of his favorite shirts.

May 2 - I made fried dandelions and they were amazing. It is a ton of work because you have to rinse them a bunch of times before using them and I probably ate at least one tiny ant because every time I rinsed there still seemed to be ants but I would do it again!

May 3 - My daughter doesn't eat much but she does love veggies so I asked if she would try stuffed peppers. She said yes but was very specific in what she allowed in it. No meat, no breadcrumbs, no anything. She just wanted rice, Italian seasoning and she added hot sauce. Very plain to me but she ate all 4.

May 4 - Me only better. Thank you Snapchat!

May 5 - I allowed myself to take a few hours to read. I always feel so guilty when I am doing nothing around the house but it was a good book and a beautiful day. 

May 6 - The birds have left the nest. They hopped around the deck for a few hours providing much entertainment for my 3 cats.  This little guy and Luna stared at each other for 15 minutes. 

May 7 - I stopped by one of my daycare kids to play a game of laser tag and say hello. His parents are awesome. My little guy came out and handed me an envelope which I opened up when I got home. It was very thoughtful. So sweet to be appreciated. 

Yard Decorations

Those who have yards may look for ways to make them look a little prettier and less dull. While their grass may be green and their flowers blooming, the layout could look a little empty and in need of a few things. There are several things one could put in their yard to make it look homier and more put together. Here are three things that most people look to add.

Lights

Putting lights around your garden or yard is beneficial for multiple reasons. There are styles you can choose from that will decorate your home, as well as light your home. Lights are always needed, so there’s always an excuse to add some to your yard. You could choose from battery-operated, solar-powered, gas, or even plug-ins. There’s a light that’s out there for you.

Flags

People love to put flags outside their homes to help spruce it up and make it fun. They can hang from tall poles, be placed in the ground, or hang off your home’s windows. You can choose ones that support your favorite teams, represent your school, or show off what you love. If you want to show you support your loved one in the military, something like Air Force flags Birmingham AL are great to display.

Décor

One of the easiest ways to add some life to your yard is to add different garden accessories all around. You could choose some animal statues or have your family paint personalized rocks. Different plaques and decorations can also be spread throughout. Having various décor can break up the monotony of the dirt, grass, and flowers in your beds.  

Adding to your yard can be easy and still make a world of difference no matter how simple. These are just a few of the ideas you could choose from to use.

Questions for Pregnant Women to Ask a Potential Adoption Agency

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When pregnant women consider using an adoption agency, it's best that they find one that fits all of their needs. For this reason, it is crucial that they are doing as much research as possible and asking the right questions. Below are some very important questions every pregnant woman using an adoption service needs to ask themselves, and the service, before committing to one service.

Do I Need Housing?

One thing many pregnant women don't think about when choosing an adoption service is that some services provide a place for pregnant women to live during their pregnancy. If a pregnant woman is in a strenuous housing situation, then it would be in their best interest to look into adoption agencies that provide housing. With free or supplemented housing, there will be one less thing for pregnant women to worry about during their pregnancy. 

Do I Want an Open or Closed Adoption?

One of the most important, and permanent, things a pregnant woman needs to ask themselves is whether the adoption will be open or closed. In an open adoption, the birth mother and the adoptive family (including the baby) will all have some kind of contact with each other. The terms of this contract will be decided by both families before the baby is born. This can range to seeing the child often to being able to send birthday presents. In a closed adoption, there is no contact with the birth mother and baby or adoptive family after the baby is born. It's best to do research on each of these options to decide what will be best for all people involved.  

Will I Receive Any Payment?

Some adoptive parents and/or adoption agencies do give birth mothers a payment for putting their child up for adoption. However, this is obviously not a good reason for women to become pregnant on purpose, as adoption agencies and adoptive parents, more often than not, do not give any large payments to birth mothers. In fact, it is illegal in most states to pay a mother to put up a baby for adoption. However, there are some expenses that adoptive parents might cover. These can include but are not limited to, medical bills, living expenses, and therapy costs.

Make sure to ask yourself these three important questions before considering putting your baby up for adoption. Adoption is right for some people, but not for everyone. That's why it is so important to figure out whether it is right for you or not.

Storage Units Aren't Just for Moving

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When you think of storage units the first thing that may come to mind is for moving purposes. Indeed, being able to pack up all of your stuff and put it in a place while you work through the stress of moving is helpful, but that is not the only thing storage units Freemont County CO can be used for. Here are some creative ways to use storage units you may not have considered.

Business Organization

Running a business from home can be such an amazing opportunity, but can easily get out of control and fill up your whole house with inventory and stuff. Why not use a storage unit to help organize it all? It is much cheaper than paying for an office and will save your home from being invaded.

Feel Like a Minimalist

Do you want to live that minimalist life but just can't let your self get rid of more stuff? If you have things you may want it in the future but don't want to look like a hoarder, just get a place to store all of your stuff outside of your home. 

Seasonal Storage

There is nothing like the wind in your hair on your motorcycle during those summer nights, but there is a lot of frustration when trying to fit that motorcycle in your garage in the winter. You don't have to turn your garage into a giant puzzle. Get a storage unit to help store the things for the offseason and then switch that snowblower for the motorcycle come summer. 

Hold Memories

Memories are priceless, but if you get rid of them they can be gone forever. When a loved one passes or a child grows older you don't have to get rid of everything to save space. You can rent a small storage unit and have those memories to look at for years to come. 

4 Easy Ways to Relieve Your Dog's Separation Anxiety

If you have a dog that suffers from separation anxiety, you know how heartbreaking it can be to have to leave them. Even if you try to stay at home as much as possible, having to leave at some point is inevitable. Here are 4 simple things that you can try to help relieve their anxiety and make your time away from home less stressful for everyone.

Exercise Your Dog Before Leaving

Sometimes, you may be mistaking anxiety for pent-up energy. If your dog has not been properly exercised and is then put into a crate or left alone, he may become bored and rowdy simply because he is unable to settle down. Before you leave, take your dog for a nice walk or spend some time playing with him so that he is exhausted when you leave. A tired dog is a good dog, so don't set him up for failure by ignoring his needs.  

Try Calming Supplements

There are many calming supplements on the market, but if you want to go the natural route, try organic CBD oil for dogs. CBD works in the brain to cause a feeling of balance and restfulness, making your dog not only less upset, but also a bit sleepy. CBD can also be used to treat painassociated with ailments like arthritis and cancer, so it really is a great solution.

Don't Turn Leaving into a Big Deal

As tempting as it may be to say a long, loving goodbye to your dog before you leave, this will only serve to get him excited and make him upset when you leave. Instead of leaving excitedly, simply get yourself ready and go. Also, try to change your pre-leaving routine up a bit, so your dog does not begin to associate you getting dressed in the bathroom, for example, with negative feelings. 

Start Small

Particularly if you are training a puppy, start by leaving your dog for a short time, no more than five minutes, and then coming back and praising him if he behaved. If this goes well, you can begin to leave him for longer periods of time, and he should begin to realize that you may leave often, but you always come back and there is nothing to be upset about.

Dogs need repetition and crave position attention. If you work with your pal every day consistently, you will eventually have an even-keeled, well-mannered dog in your home.

The Importance of Being a Dental Role Model for Your Kids

Parents often tell their kids to brush their teeth when waking up in the morning and before going to bed at night. But, often, simply telling them to do it isn’t enough to motivate them to pick up the toothbrush. Countless parents struggle with teaching their kids the importance of oral hygiene. By setting the right model for your children, you can help them become more diligent about caring for their teeth.

Monkey See, Monkey Do

Often, children imitate their parents. This allows them to acquire the skills necessary to survive in this world and they typically do it without thinking. So, it’s super-important that you, as a parent, set the right example for your child.

Children also have the heart-touching habit of looking up to their parents and wanting to mimic their actions consciously to garner their parents’ approval. 

Brush, Rinse, and Floss

Your child’s first encounter with dental hygiene is often watching your own bathroom habits. So, it’s important that you take good care of your own teeth before you ask your child to take care of theirs.

If your child sees that you brush first thing after a meal, they will automatically get the idea that doing so is “the right way.” For kids, parents simply must know the right way, which is why they mimic so much of what you do.

Make It a Family Activity

Even if you’re not going to bed for a few hours, make a point of going to the bathroom to brush and floss with your child. By building this habit, you make sure they will stick with it for life.

Don’t Ignore Your Mouth Either 

If you have dental problems, like a cavity or even a missing tooth, make a point of getting it fixed. For example, look into getting dental implants from www.dentessential.com.au if you have missing teeth.

When you do so, you show your son or daughter that you are not only getting a healthier looking mouth, but also that they don’t need to be afraid of the dentist, as many kids are. Essentially, you are leading by example. 

Thus, it’s important to also keep regular dentist’s appointments and take good care of your own teeth. Then you are ensuring that your child will take care of theirs too.

Warn Them about the Results of Not Brushing Regularly

Adults usually assume that everyone knows that poor oral hygiene can lead to cavities, bacteria, and even tooth loss. But kids don’t know that. 

Or, even if they’ve heard it, it hasn’t had time to become something they know to be true yet. Thus, remind them of the consequences of not brushing regularly. Don’t assume that telling them once will suffice.

Final Words on Being a Dental Role Model

It is your job as a parent to keep their teeth safe and healthy, even if you must tell them countless times. The bottom line is that, as a parent, you must care for your own teeth to show your children the importance of dental hygiene. Doing so can save you both from significant dental issues over time.

 

I Am So Excited To Be A Camp Warner Bros Counselor This Summer #CampWarnerBros

It's official I am now a Camp Director for Camp Warner Bros. I was so excited to receive my "box" Friday.

The Camp Calendar is perfect for my kids who have been home schooled since the COV19 Outbreak closed their schools in March. We could sure use some fun. 

Thank you to Warner Bros Home Entertainment! I am super excited. 

My first task was to tie-dye my Director shirt. I have never tie-dyed anything so I was a little nervous but it was fun!

I cannot wait to jump in. Come back and see what else we are up to. Follow me on Instagram for our Stories as we go through the next 8 weeks of camp.

Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was offered to participate. 

5 Great Summer Things to Do in the Outdoors

Summer is here, which means it’s time to get out your backpack, hiking boots and tent and head to your favorite outdoor spot. With only a few months of spectacular weather to cram in all your fun summer activities, it’s never too early to start planning what you want to do or where you want to go. Here are five awesome outdoor adventures to consider as this summer rolls around the corner.

1. Go Camping

Camping is one of the most fun ways to escape into the outdoors. Best of all, you can go camping in a campground near your house in a state park, or venture further into the wilderness with everything you need strapped to your back. There’s hardly anything better than sitting around the fire enjoying your favorite thing from smokingthings.com while reminiscing about past adventures and eating s’mores.

2. Try Boating and Fishing

There’s almost nothing more leisurely than spending your day on a boat with a fishing line in one hand and a drink in the other. It usually isn’t hard to find a reservoir near you that you can take a boat out on. If you don’t have a boat, then simply walk around the water’s line until you find a great spot to hang out at all day and cast away.

3. Go Hiking

Hiking allows you to get away from the rush of traffic and people in populated areas. The farther in you hike, the less people you’ll see and the more you can enjoy nature. Bring some binoculars to do some wildlife watching and a camera to document your adventure. You can research hikes to try online or take out a topo map and see what you find.

4. Visit a National Park

National parks are made for exploring the great outdoors. Most are accessible by car, so you can enjoy much of the park simply by rolling down your window. There are all sorts of activities available in the parks, so ask a ranger when you arrive about what’s best at that time of year.

5. Go for a Dip

For unbearably hot days, search for a swim beach nearby that you can take off to when it’s too hot for anything else. Many state parks often have a lake where you can set up a beach picnic and splash around in the water. It’s not summer if you don’t go for a dip at least once.

My Buddy My Love

This girl is probably my favorite person to spend time with. When I had a daughter I only prayed that we would have a wonderful relationship. My mom passed when I was 12 and although I believe we had an great relationship it was nothign like I have with my girl.

 
We spend a lot of time together and most of it is laughing. Like most teens she has an atitude and I keep waiting for the day she doesn't want to hang with me but until then I am so grateful for her. She is the reason I know there is a God!

Basic Rock Climbing Gear

Photo by Brook Anderson on Unsplash

In the past, the only way to go rock climbing was to get out in the great outdoors. However, rock climbing Denver can now also take place in indoor gyms. Whether you choose to climb indoors or outdoors, there are certain types of basic gear that you need. If you climb at a gym, the facility may provide the equipment, but if you climb outdoors, you will probably have to obtain the gear yourself. The type of equipment you need also depends somewhat on the style of rock climbing you do. If you are just starting out in rock climbing, here are some different types of basic gear you should know about.

Chalk

A rock climber relies on a steady grip, but as you climb, the exertion and the temperature can cause your hands to become sweaty. This can make gripping more difficult. Climbers put chalk on their hands to absorb the sweat and keep their hands dry. It is customary to keep powdered chalk in a small bag attached to your harness.

Harness and Rope

Not all styles of climbing involve rope. However, for those that do, you also need a harness to attach to the rope and keep you from falling. Because there are different styles of climbing, there are a variety of harnesses that each offer different features. The most basic attributes of a harness are leg loops connected to a waist belt that is reinforced and padded for protection and comfort.

Helmet

The helmet is an essential piece of rock climbing equipment, especially if you climb outdoors. A fall could result in a serious head injury, and the risk increases the nearer you come to the summit. It can also protect you from falling debris, which could cause serious injury if it struck you in the head.

Carabiners

Carabiners are used as connectors that attach other equipment to ropes. The spring-loaded gate allows you to connect the metal loop to a rope. There are two types of carabiners: locking and non-locking. For a noncritical connection, you can use a non-locking carabiner.

However, you should use a locking carabiner when you need to ensure that the gate will not open on its own. Magnets, screw gates, and automatic twist-lock are all examples of mechanisms that locking carabiners feature. When you need to attach to the middle of your rope or the rope is running through an anchor, a locking carabiner is necessary. Then again, if the style of climbing you are doing does not involve ropes, carabiners of either type are not necessary.

My Life In The Fish Tank by Barbara Dee - Great Middle School Read

Just finished My Life In The Fish Tank by Barbara Dee - Great book! Perfect Middle School Reader book about a middle schooler named Zinnia whose brother’s mental illness (Bipolar) changes the life of her whole family.  I loved that although the storyline was deep and dark the writer stayed away from dark tones and although the whole family was going through this, the kids were kids. Dealing with friendships new and old, assignments, great teachers, etc. It was written from a child’s prospective as her and her family move through this situation. 

Zinnia is told to keep the facts of her brother’s illness a secret not because the parents are embarrassed but to give him privacy. This forces her to lie to her best friends which causes her to feel uncomfortable around them. This also means she isn’t getting the help she needs from her peers or teachers even when invited to a therapy club during lunch. She feels odd and different.  Hello, sounds like middle school even when your family isn’t going through something. 

I think this is a great read about a complex situation, handled by an amazing author. LOVED IT and cannot wait to read more of her work.

Household Businesses

Many people are looking for ways to make some extra money. If you want to do this, it is important to have an idea and plan on what you want to do. With precision, you can start a relevant business that will give you profit. It can be tough to start a business, as there are things that will happen that you can’t prepare to face. You’ll need to choose something that you have a passion to get you through the hard times. Here are a few ideas that you can try.

Jewelry

If you have an eye for fashion, you can try making homemade jewelry for sale. There are many types of styles you can make. Many people love to mix and match rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. You can use different materials and colors to make them unique and customized. Things are always changing in this industry, so you need to be flexible in how you are designing these items.

Graphics

Many people like to have custom decals. Some people like to have quotes and special sayings on their walls. If you have a machine to make these stickers, you can make them for cars and windows as well. Some of the newest items people are choosing to customize are cups and tumblers. Having your name or design on them makes them unique and desirable.

Food

You can make different meals or desserts for people. It can be for special occasions, or just because someone wants them. Events such as parties and weddings are great ways to make multiple units to sell. Any special recipe that you have can be used to make a unique food that people can’t find anywhere else.

Art

If you have a natural ability at art, you can take advantage of it. You could use different materials like oil paints or watercolors. Multiple styles like painting or drawing pictures of people or wildlife are bound to hit somebody. You can mix up your skill in photography as well. If you are able to take photos and replicate them through artwork, people will frame them. You can mix and match these two separate talents.

Candles

People love to have their homes smell nice. Rooms that stink can be a turn off for family and guests who may come over. Using a candle is a great way people get sweet aromas in their homes. Mixing different ingredients and scents with wax is simple, but the final product is a great thing to sell.

It can be hard when you become an entrepreneur. With drive and ambition though, you can use your skills to start your own business.

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