Sunday, July 31, 2011

Instructing the Heart

"Instructing a child's heart is not simply transferring data from parent to child. It is impressing the heart with truth."

"Honor for God, respect for authority, respect for others, and a gracious and productive atmosphere in our homes will be some of the blessings of biblical formative instruction. Modern homes can be the shelter where dignity, loyalty to family valued and standards are kept, helping our children to face the world and its challenges every day."

Tedd & Margy Tripp
(from "Instructing a Child's Heart")

Thursday, July 21, 2011

She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
-Proverbs 31:25

Friday, July 15, 2011

Traveling with Little Ones

Traveling used to be an adventure! The idea of a spontaneous trip used to be so exciting to us! However, that's not the case now; traveling with young kids is a different story. It can be intimidating because we don't know what to expect, and we're used to our routines and controlling our children's environment.


Take heart! :0 ) Here are some tips to put your nerves at ease:

Security

Car seats are free to check in

Strollers are also free to check in at the counter (or at the gate -just make sure you get a luggage claim tag at the gate)

Carry On Bags: What to Bring
Travel lightly. It's just you, your baby, and your diaper bag

An extra outfit for your baby in case there's a food or potty accident

An extra shirt for you in case your current shirt gets soiled for any reason

An Ergo, Baby Bjorn, or your preferred baby carrier

Enough diapers

Bibs

Snacks (if age appropriate)
-cereal puffs
-freeze dried yogurt snacks

Little toys and books that aren't too bulky or heavy to entertain your baby
-wind-up toys, like a wobbly penguin or a dancing monkey can be set on your fold-out table to amuse your child
-Playdoh (if age appropriate)

Pillow
-this is a bulky object that you may choose to forego, but many moms prefer to lay the pillow on their lap (or on the wall if on a window seat) for their baby's head to rest

In the Air

Air pressure is an important note. Breast feed at take-off and at landing. Pacifiers can work too. What's important is that your child is sucking to relieve the pressure in her ears.

Try to fly during baby's nap times or evening sleep time

A window seat is preferred if you want to breastfeed more privately because you have more room to turn away and feed

An aisle seat is preferred if easy access to the bathroom is a priority for all diaper changing needs

Other Tips

On the plane, you can ask the steward if any empty seats or a row of empty seats are available for relocating so that you and your baby will be more comfortable

It's common for babies to become overly stimulated from new surroundings and unfamiliar people. Chamomile tablets or teething tablets can help sooth and calm a child. These tablets are usually homeopathic and will easily melt in your child's mouth.

At the ticket counter, don't hesitate to ask if your spouse can get a pass to help you through security and to your gate. Not all, but many airports are family friendly and will gladly allow your spouse to accompany you!

Proverbs 1:33
But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be secure, without fear of evil.

Relax, and enjoy the trip!

Friday, July 8, 2011

Quiet Time Plan

The P.R.A.Y.E.R. Quiet Time Plan
(Catherine Martin from Quiet Time Ministries)

Prepare Your Heart

Read and Study God's Word

Adore God in Prayer

Yield Yourself to God

Enjoy His Presence

Rest in His Love