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Let’s Talk About Affirmations (Yes, They Actually Work)

9/10/2024

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​We’ve all been there. You text your kid something encouraging like, “You’re amazing!” and in return, you get… crickets. Or maybe just a thumbs up emoji if you’re lucky. But here’s the thing—whether they respond or not, your words matter. Especially when it comes to affirmations.

What’s an Affirmation, Anyway?

​Affirmations are basically positive, confidence-boosting nuggets that help rewire the brain for the better. Think of them like a mental high-five. And trust me, teens and young adults need all the high-fives they can get (even if their current vibe is more like “Ugh, whatever, Mom”).
The science is cool, too. Apparently, when you repeat affirmations, it activates the part of the brain that handles self-worth and motivation (a.k.a., the part we hope they’re using when deciding between studying for that test or binge-watching their 15th episode of whatever). In short: affirmations work, even if they don’t immediately show it.
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So, Why Should You Be Sending These Little Gems to Your Kids?

Let’s be real—teenagers are walking tornadoes of emotions, and young adults are out there trying to figure out how to adult without setting off the smoke alarm every time they make dinner. They’re dealing with grades, friendships, social media pressures, and more.

And here’s where you come in, superhero parent! Sending affirmations is like sneaking little confidence snacks into their day. It’s a small, low-effort (but high-impact) way to remind them, "Hey, you're actually pretty awesome, and you’ve got this!"
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Sure, they might not admit it, but deep down, these affirmations plant little seeds of positivity that they carry with them. Plus, they’re quick to send—so if you’re busy trying to juggle your own day (and maybe your sanity), this is one of those easy parenting wins.

The Science-y Stuff Behind It All (Don’t Worry, It’s Good)

Okay, time to nerd out for a sec. When you give your kid a positive affirmation, their brain’s reward system lights up like a Christmas tree. It’s called the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (I know, fancy, right?), and it’s the part that says, “Hey, maybe I can do this after all!”
​

By consistently hearing or reading these affirmations, your teen starts to actually believe them. Yep, even if they eye-roll in the moment, their brain is still absorbing all that positivity. Over time, this rewiring helps them build confidence, reduce anxiety, and feel more motivated—whether they’re crushing exams, dealing with drama, or just surviving the day.

Why It’s a Genius Parenting Strategy (No Cape Required)

​Here’s the real genius part: sending affirmations gives you a way to stay connected with your kid without being the “nagging parent.” You’re showing up in their life in a positive, subtle way, reminding them that you’re in their corner—without asking too many questions about their homework or social life (because, yeah, that’s a no-go).
​
Plus, sending a little text with an affirmation and a quick note of encouragement is like leaving a Post-It on the fridge—but modern. It’s non-intrusive, quick, and—let’s be honest—it’ll probably make their day, even if they don’t tell you. And hey, you’re scoring some major parent points just by caring enough to send it.

Bottom Line: It Matters

We all know that teens and young adults are good at hiding how they’re feeling, but here’s what we do know: they crave support, positivity, and belief in their potential, even if they don’t ask for it. Sending weekly affirmations is like giving them a little pep talk, reminding them they’re capable, resilient, and not doing this whole life thing alone.

So whether they send you a “K, thx” or (fingers crossed) an actual response, keep those affirmations coming. You’re helping shape their mindset, boost their confidence, and build a stronger connection—even if they won’t admit it until, you know, maybe in 10 years at Thanksgiving.
​
You’ve got this, superhero parent. And so does your kid.

Download a Years Worth of Affirmations

Alright, parents, here’s the deal: sending these affirmations to your kids is super easy, and we’ve made it foolproof and FREE (because we know you’ve got enough on your plate). All you’ve gotta do is:

1. Download the overview with all the affirmations and encouragements for the year.
2. Then, grab the 52 ready-to-go images we made on Canva—they’re designed to be text-perfect and look amazing on your kid’s phone screen.

​You’ll have a whole year’s worth of affirmations to send right from your phone with just a few taps. No design skills required, we promise! Just hit download, and you’re ready to spread the love, encouragement, and occasional eye-roll from your teen.
Download Affirmations
Affirmation Overview
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Funny Gift Tags

11/30/2023

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Shopping already?

I have a friend who has been finished Christmas shopping since SEPTEMBER! But I'm gathering a few things herer and there.

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You Blow Me Away

1/30/2023

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Facebook memories are often a real treat and I enjoy seeing the things that were important at the time, reliving memories, and smiling knowing we survived it all - so far. Several years ago I post about my joy in nailing the classroom Valentine. My kids -especially my sons - has rules about what they could bring for the class.
Nothing mushy.
Nothing that sounded ANYTHING like converation hearts.
Had to be cool
... you get the idea

I found these nose pencil sharpners and they were a hit! I giggle the entire time that I was putting these gems together - and laughed again today at the thought of it all! I added a tag that read, "You BLOW me away, Valentine" It checked all the boxes and I think I got bonus Mom Points for being gross.

Get your own pencil sharpners Valentine supplies here
Amazon Link for Nose Sharpeners
Amazon Link for Self Seal Bags for gifting
FREE Gift Tag Printable Link

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Spiced Christmas Jam

12/12/2022

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The Idea

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A friend posted a recipe online and I was intreagued. Immediatly I asked when we were going to do this together - then I couldn't wait and jumped in a few days later. Once I took inventory and gathered up the supplies on hand, and added the others to the list, I started out.

It is a relatively cost effective recipe, considering what you probably already have on hand. All spice, frozen strawberries and fresh cranberries were all I really needed to add.

With all my ingredients out and ready, I prepared my jars and lids. Then it was jam time. Since I'm not great at following directions or measuring things out, I made my own plan. I like to improvise. If you see a recipe and think, I'd like that sweeter or how can I cut the calories or make it a bit healthier, try it!  Here's the results of my little experiment so you can try it too.

Canning

Canning isn't hard, but the first time I did it, I was terrified. To be perfectly honest, that hissing, steaming pressure canner can be quite scary. I get it! Luckily, this recipe is completely safe to use the water bath canning method.
Water bath processing is a processing method used in home canning for high acid or sweet foods. The jars are filled and sealed. The jars are boiled completely covered in water for a specific amount of time. High-acid or sugary foods are items such as jams, jellies, pickles, relishes, salsas, and tomato products. So, water bath canning is perfect for this Spice Christmas Jam.
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The finished product is worth the effort!

Getting Everything REady

STEP 1: GATHER THE INDEGDIENTS
  • Cranberries – You can use frozen or fresh cranberries for this recipe. If you use frozen cranberries, there will be more moisture content, so you will need to cook for a little bit longer to evaporate that moisture, which will in turn, thicken the jam.
  • Strawberries – Just like the cranberries, you can use frozen or fresh strawberries here too.
  • Sugar – Don’t cut back on the sugar! The sugar amounts are set so that safe canning practices are met, helps to determine the thickness of the jam and whether or not the jelly will set properly. I used a sugar subsitute to help watch our calories. It works and measures the same.
  • Liquid Fruit Pectin – Pectin natually occurs in the cells of nearly all fruits and berries, however, the amount varies. Pectin is low in strawberries, so a liquid fruit pectin is needed to help the jam set or firm up.
  • Spices – You will need ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground allspice, and ground cloves.
STEP 2: PREPARING THE JARS
Eliminate any risk whatsoever by always sterilizing your jars and lids. Just wash the jars in hot, soapy water. Rinse the jars well under running water to get rid of any soap residue. Then boil the jars and lids (not the rings).

The Recipie

Equipment
  • 10 quart canning jars
  • Waterbath Canning (Large Pot)
  • Jar Wrench/Lifter
  • Canning Funnel (optional)
  • Ladle (I used my measuring cup)
  • Non-metallic Bubble Remover (optional)
  • Magnetic Lid Lifter (optional)
Ingredients
  • 3 1/2 pounds fresh or frozen strawberries (15 cups)
  • 1 pound fresh or frozen cranberries (4 cups)
  • 5  pounds sugar (5 cups) or substitute. I used a whole bag of swerve
  • 4 pouches liquid fruit pectin
  • 3 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cloves
​Instructions
  • I like my jam chunky so I boiled and mashed my fruit (see video above). You can also puree them in your food processor if you like a smoother consistency. 
  • Measure the sugar and spices and add those to the large pot once your fruit is the consistency you'd like it.
  • Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a full boil. Continue to boil for one full minute.
  • Remove the pot from the heat  and add in the liquid fruit pectin. Stir well to combine and place the saucepan back on the heat.
  • Once the jam returns to a full boil, remove from the heat.
  • Once the bubbling settles, use a spoon or ladle to skim off any foam and discard it.
  • Next, ladle the hot jam into the hot jars being sure to leave 1/4 inch of headspace. 
  • Lower the jars (with lids and rings on) into the pot. Be sure the water level covers the jars by two inches. Bring the water to a boil, cover the canning pot, and boil for 10 minutes.
  • Remove from the water and allow jam to cool and set, undisturbed, for 12 hours. Wipe jars and label accordingly. Store jam in cool, dark cabinet for up to a year.
Notes: Each serving is equal to 2 tablespoons.
​
Nutrition (if using real sugar)
Calories: 59kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.1g | 
Saturated Fat: 0.003g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | 
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.004g | Sodium: 0.3mg | Potassium: 16mg | Fiber: 0.3g | 
Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.1mg

WAys to Use Spiced Christmas Jam

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In addition to piling it on a biscut, here are a few other delicious ideas:
  • Stir jam into plain yogurt to cut the tanginess.
  • Add some to your French toast mix. 
  • Make a sweet grilled cheese with sliced brie
  • Fill thumbprint cookies
  • Make a layer cake

Give as a Gift

Thinking about what it do with 10 amazing jars of Christmas jam? Share the joy with others!

I've even made some jar lables and gift tags for you. Download your FREE Printalbes below.
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Download Lables and Tags
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Christmas Light Awards

12/1/2022

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December 1st is National Christma Light Day!
Let's Celebrate!

Turn up the music and the fun!

Every year we load up, crank up the Christmas music and ohh and ahh together over all the fabulous Christmas light displays in our area. Every one in a while, we take it up a notch. It always brings a smile when we give out our ​Christmas Light Awards.
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We liketo look at the lights so much that we even went to The Lights in Arlington, Texas this year. It's a drive through light display - and it was amazing!

It’s one of our favorite Christmas family traditions we enjoy each year.  One year we even gave it a Polar Express theme! We make an evening of it by making popcorn and hot chocolate, piling in the car in our jammies (just the kids when they were little) and our blankets, and getting the playlist ready.

​To ramp up our yearly Christmas light family night (and help the kids pay a little more attention) I came up with a way to celebrate the hard work neighbors put into their homes for the holidays. It  added in an extra element of excitement for the kids too.

​CHRISTMAS LIGHT AWARDS

​To be recognized and awarded for all their efforts to bring holiday cheer to the town, I created some certificates to hand out during our drive looking at Christmas lights. These certificates each have a theme.

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS

Print out the certificates and date and sign them. You can put your family’s last name or the person who gives the award can sign their name.
​Some years we took turns giving the awards and personally signed the certificate. This year I'm printing a set for every single one of us! 
An additional fun twist to these awards is you can knock on the receivers door and give it to them personally or you can be sneaky and tape it to there door. One year we gave the gand prize winner a pie from United!
Either way it’s super fun to give these awards to the best lit homes in your town.

AWARD CATEGORIES

  • The Minimalist – Simple and clean light display
  • The White Lights – Most beautiful white lights display
  • The Inflatables – Most inflatables per square foot
  • The Reason for the Season – Best Nativity display
  • The Griswold – Sparing no expense of Christmas spirit!
  • The Disco Fever – Best projection lights and/or music
  • Blank – make-up your own award to give!
THE MINIMALIST
This home will have a simple and clean light display. They will have the windows and home trimmed and lights carefully placed. Or possibly they may only have one tree decorated or one window decorated.

THE WHITE LIGHTS HOUSE
This home will be decorated will all white lights! No multi colors to be found on this house.

THE INFLATABLES HOUSE
Every inch of this homes front yard is filled with inflatable decorations. Maybe they even skipped putting up Christmas lights at all. 

THE REASON FOR THE SEASON
A nativity scene will be the focus of this person’s yard. Possibly a wooden stable with lifelike figures or a beautifully lit manger scene. 

THE GRISWOLD HOUSE
Lights covered every inch of this persons home and yard. The roof, the grass and the trees are all lit with lights!

THE DISCO FEVER HOUSE
Projection lights or lights timed with music would fit this award perfectly.

BLANK
Create your own award for a home. This one is just for you and your family.

Download Your Certificates

Judging

As you drive around town take note of which homes may be a candidate for each award (write the street name and house number). Use the Christmas Light Judges Sheet to help you keep track of your favorites. ​After taking a spin around you can take a hot chocolate break to tally up the votes and then travel back to each winners home to present the awards. Sometimes we just stop the moment we see "the one" to give the award right then.
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​GIVING THE AWARD

When you go back to each home try to get a picture of the house and have someone hold the certificate up in the picture. This will be a fun memory to look back at and as the years go by you can compare the award winners!

You can give a little gift with the award like a candy cane, chocolate bar or Christmas ornament. Or just give the award itself. 

We can't wait to hear how your Christmas Light Tour goes this year.

Bonus: a playlist to enjoy on your tour

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Easy Elf on a Shelf Guide

11/29/2022

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Many years ago, when the kid were much younger, we bought an Elf on the Shelf, read the book, named the elf - and regretted it most mornings. Our little "Elfton" got into some messes, cost us sleep and destroyed the kitchen, the Christmas tree, wasted toilet paper and food... One year I bought a kit - clothes, an envelope, even a tardis!

I've collected the free ideas, easy printables, and created a planning calendar for your few weeks with your elf this year.

Click the link. Download and print. Have some grand adventure, lots of laughs, and enjoy the time you'll spend together.
Download Your Free Elf Guide
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Size: 8 1/2 x 11
Total Pages:22 
Print: in Color, one-sided

Guide Book includes:
  • A planning calendar
  • ideas page
  • A Welcome Letter
  • Elf Protection Sign
  • Scavenger Hunt for indoors or outside
  • Elf Jokes
  • Secret Code Game
  • Coloring pages
  • Christmas Light Hunt
  • Would You Rather Game
  • Mini Signs for your Elf
  • Cut out Photo frame
  • Foldable Treat Box
  • Service Ideas
  • Donation Box Letter
  • Letter to Santa Paper
  • The Foor is on Fire Game Sign
  • Mini-Elf hats 
  • Goodbye Letter
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Holiday Planner/Journal

11/28/2022

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Get organized and make some memories this holiday season with this Christmas Planner! Make the holiday season less stressful so you can focus on what matters most.

Keep track of your budget, to do's, gifts, stocking stuffers, and addresses for cards. Plan out holiday activities, menus, and the schedule for Christmas day
🎄DETAILS🎄
* FREE Download
* Print Size 8 1/2 x 11
*52 pages 

🎄PAGES INCLUDE🎄
Undated Calendars for Planning
Journal Questions
Mood Trackers
Interactive Questions
Coloring Pages
Budget
Gift Planner
Meal and Party Planning
....and more
Christmas Planner Download
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Click image to download your own.
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Picnic Party

8/9/2016

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I love things that match and fun parties with sets of matching things are glorious. When the Dating Divas send out this August Freebie, I knew that I was going to find a way to use them. They are just darling.

I have a great office and love the ladies that I work with and they love doing stuff live this so it seems like a win - win! 

We cut out all of the pieces, got out the glue and folded and wrapped and ribboned. We are ready for our office indoor picnic! 
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Free Reading

12/30/2015

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Being snowed in for the last few days have offered an opportunity to read a little bit (and watch one Hallmark movie after another). One of my favorite resources for free books is Spirit Filled Kindle. I found them on facebook about a year ago and each day they post links to free Kindle books.

Typically there are Christian Romance and Bible Studies or Devotionals. It's nice to have something new to read - daily, if I wanted to.


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    Really, I never thought that I'd say, "... table for 6, please." going to dinner with my family. I had plans to be a professor and travel the world. I moved from Missouri to West Texas for graduate school and was just passing through, when I met a man that captivated my heart and held my hand.

    Both teachers at the time, we met before Spring Break, got engaged the day after school was out and got married over Thanksgiving Break. And we shared our wedding cake top with the Labor and Delivery nurses in the hospitial when our oldest child was born. Our courtship was quick and it was exciting. And I don't think that we'd trade any of it for what we thought it might be.

    This magical adventure is more amazing than anything that I had planned.

    ​See my BlogSpot

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