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HEART TO HEART NEWSLETTER
ENCOURAGEMENT TO WOMEN
Compiled especially for you with love by Lois Breneman

 

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5/9/08  Mothering, Reflections, Position, Tidbits, Tips, Honey Wheat Bread, Saving

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IN THIS ISSUE: 

NOTE FROM LOIS

MONEY SAVING TIPS ON POSTAGE
MOTHERING AS A TENDER SHEPHERD
REFLECTIONS OF A MOTHER
THERE'S MORE TO MOTHER'S DAY THAN FLOWERS
POSITION AVAILABLE: MOTHER, MOM OR MAMA
TIDBITS FOR NEW MOMS

TIPS ON BEING A GREAT MOM

GRANDMA'S HANDS

HOW TO GET YOUR FAMILY TO SAVE

MOTHER'S DAY GIFT IDEAS

KIDS' QUOTES

MY FAVORITE HONEY WHOLE WHEAT BREAD

BABY ANNOUNCEMENT

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY & DAUGHTER'S DAY TO EACH OF YOU!

 

NOTE FROM LOIS

        Hopefully the information included in this newsletter is not too late for your Mother's Day.  I had meant for you to receive this newsletter on May 1, but we've been having major computer problems since before the last newsletter was sent. 

        Your prayers would be appreciated that "Heart to Heart" will be able to continue without further major glitches, and also that the treatments I am receiving for fibromyalgia and neck pain will soon help bring relief. 

        I've been missing working on the newsletter, but have been getting some other projects completed - sewing, reworking a guest bedroom, painting a wooden bench and wheelbarrow (three coats).  I filled the white wheelbarrow with silk fuchsia, pink, red and white geraniums and ivy and made a foam cushion for the bench.  The fabric is a lovely new floral tablecloth I found at a yardsale for 50 cents.  It was a no-sew project, since I simply wrapped it as though it were giftwrap and fastened it tightly with long straight pins along the edges of the cushion, so no one will get jabbed.  The bench, wheelbarrow and flowers were all at least half off at A.C. Moore.  I also found a beautiful round table there for under $10 - 75% off with a mosaic glass top (pink stained glass flower) and wrought iron legs.  I also found two spring decorations at Joanne's Fabrics for 70% off.  They are hanging on each side of the front door.  It was fun to give our front porch a makeover with everything costing 50-75% off!

        Because of the time required to manage and put together this newsletter, if you are one who often sends me forwards, please understand that I don't have time to sort through so much e-mail, and remove me from those lists.  However, if you have an e-mail relating to the home or family (one not already included in Heart to Heart), please do send it.  Of course, personal e-mails are always welcome.

        Most definitely send me the cute quotes from your children, grandchild and great-grandchildren with permission to include them in "Heart to Heart" with your name and state! Thanks!

 

 

MONEY SAVING TIPS ON POSTAGE
        "Forever Stamps," with a bell, can still be purchased before May 12 for 41 cents each, and can be used even after postage increases.  www.usps.com

        Postage increases will take place in the U. S. again on May 12.  You may need to order some one cent stamps to supplement your leftover 41 cent stamps, unless they are Forever Stamps.  Those can be used alone as long as you have any, no matter what the increase may be.

        A letter weighing more than one ounce (up to 2 oz.) does not take two 42 cent stamps!  You only need an additional 17 cents for each additional ounce up to 3 1/2 ounces.

        Having a small postal meter may actually save you money.  It's a good gift suggestion.  They cost about $17.

 

First-Class Mail (Letter (1 oz.)                              $0.42
First-Class Mail (Letter (2 oz.)                              $0.59 
                                           (17 cents for each additional oz. up to 3 1/2 oz.)
Postcard                                                                 $0.27

 

        Special Postcards with a Flair ~  Make beautiful postcards with used greeting cards, as long as the back is smooth.  Draw a vertical line down the back side to separate your message and the address.  For an additional touch of color, cut a rectangular piece of card stock a half inch larger than the picture to form a frame for your picture using glue stick - or frame only the top and one side. 

        Maximum measurements are 4 1/4 x 6 inches.  If anything is over that size, you will have to pay full first-class postage.  Minimum postcard measurements are 3 1/2 x 5 inches.  Anything smaller is not mailable. 

 

 

MOTHERING AS A TENDER SHEPHERD
By Donna Kauffman 

As I study Psalm 23, I see a tender Shepherd. One whose love for me far exceeds any kindness I can offer my daughters. The gentleness of our Father to us, His daughters, serves as a perfect example to us, as mothers, in training our daughters.

In the days when David wrote Psalm 23 shepherds stayed close to their sheep.  The shepherd knew everything there was to know about each lamb. He studied each one meticulously. He knew which sheep were feisty, quiet, emotional, fearful, angry, playful, jolly. He joyfully delighted in each of their personalities.

The shepherd watched them continually, affectionately and jealously. He carried a rod which was a heavy club, on his belt, and a staff in his hands.  The staff's crook was used to remove sheep from difficult places. The club was a weapon used to ward off beasts or predators that tried to carry sheep away from the flock.

If a lamb wandered from the flock or a lion or bear came to snatch a sheep, the shepherd raced after it, he frantically killed the bear and desperately, lovingly rescued the sheep from its mouth. I Samuel 17:34, 35  He carried the sheep back to the fold and held him while He wrapped up his wounds. He let the sheep bleat and cry for as long as he needed. Sometimes it took months for a wounded one to heal. At times a mother sheep would get stuck in the little burrow she had
nestled out for herself in the grass. If she rolled over onto her back she couldn't get up.

The shepherd who was always watching rushed to her and sympathetically cared for her. He warmly rubbed down her legs to revive circulation. He'd talk soothing words to her and caress her. With his affectionate care the shepherd eventually helped her to her feet. Carefully he steadied her until she could walk. Together they went to the still waters to bring further refreshment to her soul and body. The shepherd kept the mother sheep close beside him for as long as she needed his steady hand. At the end of the day each shepherd led his flock to the safety of the fold and slept across the gate to protect them. A good shepherd never left his sheep alone. They would have been lost without him. His presence was their assurance.

Our heavenly Father's tender, gentle care of us far exceeds that of a shepherd to its sheep. When we have been wounded or broken our Father doesn't speak sharply or separate Himself from us. He carefully listens to each painful part of our heart. He allows us to share each feeling. It can take weeks of His gentle care of our wounded heart before we begin to feel His love breaking down our anger. Suddenly forgiveness begins to take place. Our Father is not mere man. He can handle our emotions. Our kind Father longs to reach His staff out to us and with that crook draw us back from a lie we're tempted to believe or a self-condemnation we want to lay on our self. He holds and soothes us and speaks truth into our heart ever so warmly -- about His Love and WORD.

The Father picks up His rod and swats away wrong beliefs from our heart or mind. He tells us He'll carry us in His bosom. Isaiah 40:11 - He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lamb with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead them.

As mothers we can glean volumes from our Father Shepherd's tender care. If our daughter is ill or breaks her leg, it may take weeks to heal. Your warm kindness binds up her wounds and her strength begins to return. If she's been wounded by a friend, your understanding heart will begin to break down the sorrow and she'll find forgiveness can take place. When she's exuberant with joy over some exciting happening, your excitement with her will fill her heart with security. Our daughters will grow as we delight in them. They will blossom into a beautiful fragrant flower as we gently speak life and truth into their souls.

Our amazingly, kind Father is a perfect example for us as we nurture our daughters. And truly -- His care and grace for us, His daughters, far exceeds all your warm, motherly love for your daughters.

 

About the Author:  Donna Kauffman is the Editor of Treasures From My Heart to Yours Newsletter which offers encouragement to mothers and grandmothers. Besides her mothering duties Donna enjoys writing, speaking and counseling. Receive her free monthly newsletter. Contacts: [email protected], http://treasuresbooks.bravehost.com

 

 

REFLECTIONS OF A MOTHER
Author unknown

I gave you life, but cannot live it for you.
I can teach you things, but I cannot make you learn.
I can give you directions, but I cannot be there to lead you.
I can allow you freedom, but I cannot account for it.
I can take you to church, but I cannot make you believe.
I can teach you right from wrong, but I cannot always decide for you.
I can buy you beautiful clothes, but I cannot make you beautiful inside.
I can offer you advice, but I cannot accept it for you.
I can give you love, but I cannot force it upon you.
I can teach you to share, but I cannot make you unselfish.
I can teach you respect, but I cannot force you to show honor.
I can advise you about friends, but cannot choose them for you.
I can advise you about sex, but I cannot keep you pure.
I can tell you the facts of life, but I can't build your reputation.
I can tell you about drink, but I can't say "no" for you.
I can warn you about drugs, but I can't prevent you from using them.
I can tell you about lofty goals, but I can't achieve them for you.
I can teach you about kindness, but I can't force you to be gracious.
I can warn you about sins, but I cannot make you moral.
I can love you as a child, but I cannot place you in God's family.
I can pray for you, but I cannot make you walk with God.
I can teach you about Jesus, but I cannot make Jesus your Lord.
I can tell you how to live, but I cannot give you eternal life.
I can love you with unconditional love all of my life . . . and I will!!!
Love and prayers, Mom

 

THERE'S MORE TO MOTHER'S DAY THAN FLOWERS
By Michael Smalley, © Copyright 2004 Smalley Relationship Center
http://www.smalleyonline.com, Used by permission

Every Mother's Day millions of moms receive the customary bouquet of flowers, card, and if they are really lucky - chocolates. But this Mother's Day try to take into consideration your mother's or wife's personal preferences when selecting that something special. Mother's Day can be more than just flowers. Here are 4 types of potential moms and what might stand out for them this Mother's Day:

The Take Charge Mom: This is the mom that loves to be in charge and is not your frilly mom who is thrilled about flowers for the 20th year in a row. The Take Charge Mom is going to like acts of service, a day off, or a gift that reflects thanks for what she accomplishes at home, work,
or in the marriage.

The Party Mom:  This is the mom who loves to have fun with her family and is more interested in partying than keeping the home clean or working at an inside job with no people to interact with. She gets energy from surprises and would love a gift that is spontaneous and playful. Try giving her gift through a fun scavenger hunt game that she has to discover the different aspects of her mother's day gift.

The Serving Mom:  This is the mom who is always doing for others and rarely takes time for herself. She needs the gift of selfishness this year. Give her a day at a spa where she can be pampered instead of always pampering. You'll thank me later the next day for this gift!

The Details Mom:  This is the type of mom that is always making sure all her ducks are in a row. Never misses a detail and is never late getting kids ready for school or researching the latest trends at work. She is not as excited about surprises and will want a gift that is well thought out. Try sitting down with this mom for a serious conversation about what would be special for her this Mother's Day. Then make a list of her response and get after it!

If you don't realize what type of mom you're shopping for this Mother's Day, you can take her to our website and get her to take the personality test available for free at
http://www.smalleyonline.com/assessments/personalitytest.html

Whatever you do this Mother's Day, the most basic and important thing for you to accomplish is making sure she feels loved and appreciated for being a great mom.

 

 

POSITION AVAILABLE: MOTHER, MOM OR MAMA
Author unknown ~ You may have seen this before, but it's worth repeating!

Job Description: Long term, team players needed, for challenging permanent work in an often chaotic environment. Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends and frequent 24 hour shifts on call. Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities. Travel expenses not reimbursed. Extensive courier duties also required.

 

Responsibilities: The rest of your life. Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs $5. Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly. Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack mule and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, this time, the screams from the backyard are not someone just crying wolf. Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets and stuck zippers. Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and coordinate production of multiple homework projects. Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of all ages and mental outlooks. Must be willing to be  indispensable one minute, an  embarrassment the next. Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices. Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.  Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the end product. Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and janitorial work throughout the facility. 

 

Possibility for Advancement or Promotion: Virtually none. Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you.

 

Previous Experience: None required unfortunately. On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis. 

 

Wages and Compensation: Get this! You pay them! Offering frequent raises and bonuses. A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that college will help them become financially independent.  When you die, you give them whatever is left. The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

 

Benefits: While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered; this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth and free hugs for life if you play your cards right.

 

 

TIDBITS FOR NEW MOMS
Baby Wrap ~ As a new mother, I learned about the Sleepy Wrap, which is much cozier for the baby than the Bjorn baby carrier.  This "Baby Wearing" is really catching on!  My sister-in-law and I love it and are telling everyone we know about it.  It is so good for the baby and you can get so much done.  I can't imagine life without it!  There are several other types of wraps, some better for nursing, some better for bigger babies or baby carrying.  I'm sure I'll explore those options when needed, but for now this wrap is perfect for us.  There's only one drawback - it really gets your shirt wrinkled!  I just got back from an hour walk around the neighborhood, "wearing" Baby Daniel.  It's a beautiful day!  When I started my walk I just kept thinking, "Life doesn't get any better than this!"  I am so blessed and so thankful.  God is so good!  For more baby wrap information: http://www.sleepywrap.com, http://www.thebabywearer.com and http:// www.mamatoto.org ~ Rachael Breneman in Ohio

 

Breastfeeding ~ Alfalfa tablets and drinking plenty of water will help to increase milk production for nursing mothers.  The longer you allow your baby to nurse, the more milk your body will produce as well.  If your baby is extra fussy, check your diet.  Some foods cause gas in baby's tummy, and thus crying.  Some of those foods are applies, onions, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, chocolate, peanuts, excess whole grains and sugar. If you suspect your baby is crying because he has gas on his tummy, gently pump his legs, pushing his knees up to his chest.  Make it a game, by singing a song and pumping to the rhythm.  That will help distract his attention.

 

 

TIPS ON BEING A GREAT MOM

By Lois Breneman, © 2008, Heart to Heart Newsletter, [email protected] 

 

Love your children's father - one of the best things you can do for your children.

Spend time alone with the Lord, reading His word and praying.

Keep Christ at the center of your home.

Keep a prayer list and pray with your husband.

Point out to your children ways that the Lord answered prayer for you.

Encourage your children to take everything to the Lord in prayer, and pray with them.

Build happy memories and start some special traditions with your family.

Learn from your children.

Think before you speak or act.

Be a good listener.

Learn to laugh at yourself.

If you're a perfectionist, work on relaxing and being more laid back with God's help.

Apologize and ask forgiveness when you are wrong.

Look for things for which to praise your husband and children.

Have family times of Bible reading, memorization, stories, prayer, object lessons, singing  fun.

Teach your children how to discern what is good, bad, wise and foolish.

Don't compare yourself to others, but use God's teachings in His Word as a yardstick.

Make mealtimes interesting and fun.

Encourage reading.

Set limits on TV and the computer.

Take lots of pictures.

Teach thriftiness.  It will help bring out the creativity in your children.

Buy creative toys for your children.

Make good music part of your family.

Teach responsibility by not doing things for your children that they can do for themselves.

Slow down - Watch sunrises and sunsets together.

Keep promises.

Discipline according to the scriptures and in love, match the discipline to the offense.

Turn mistakes of yourselves and others into teaching opportunities.

Together find solutions for everyday problems around your home.

Help your children find their special talents.

Refrain from getting too busy with running here and there.

Work on relationships in your family.

Celebrate the little things as well as the big ones.

Get to know your children's friends by inviting them into your home.

Teach your children to cook, clean the house and do laundry.

Teach your children to eat a healthy diet - one with less sugar and fat.

Play together as a family and as a couple.

Be aware of current events in your country and in the world and pray.

Scribble down your kids' cute quotes - and send them to me for in "Heart to Heart!"  J

 

 

GRANDMA'S HANDS
Author unknown ~ Thanks to Becky Noell in Georgia for sending this!

 

        Grandma, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench.  She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands.  When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if she was okay.   
        Finally, not really wanting to disturb her but wanting to check on her at the same time, I asked her if she was okay. She raised her head and looked at me and smiled. "Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking," she said in a clear voice strong.
        "I didn't mean to disturb you, Grandma, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were okay," I explained to her.
         "Have you ever looked at your hands," she asked. "I mean really looked at your hands?"
             I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point she was making.
        Grandma smiled and related this story: "Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled, shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life.
         "They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor.  They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child, my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off to war.
         "They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special.  They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I buried my parents and spouse.
         "They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand.  They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed
And cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken,dried and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else of me works real well, these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer.       
        "These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life.  But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when He leads me home. And with My hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the Face of Christ."       
        I will never look at my hands the same again, but I remember God reached out and took my grandma's hands and led her home.          

        When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my children and husband I think of Grandma. I know she has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God.
       I too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my face.
               

 

HOW TO GET YOUR FAMILY TO SAVE
Miserly Moms. By Jonni McCoy, [email protected] , © 2005, Used by permission.

 

How do you get your family committed to a budget?  This proves to be one of the harder parts of the miserly lifestyle. If you are pinching the copper from each penny, but your family eats out for lunch or buys designer jeans, you have a hole in the budget bag.

 

Spouses and children need to be handled a bit differently, so I will address them separately.

 

In order to get my spouse to agree to the spending changes that I wanted to try, I needed to convince him that those changes would be easy and profitable.

 

The best thing I did to convince my husband was to annualize the savings that we could achieve. By reducing expenses and applying my guidelines to our groceries, I showed him that I could save $6,800 per year from our current budget. By quitting my job, I could reduce other hidden expenses by another $8,600 per year. By doing both (quitting and applying miserly ways), I was saving our family over $15,000 per year.  Ask what they could do with an extra $15,000.

 

Another thing that impressed my husband was the first major purchase made with the savings I had accumulated. After 2 months of miserly shopping and cooking, I had set aside enough money to buy 6 oak dining room chairs. That spoke to him.

 

The icing on the cake was when I explained that it doesn't take me that much time, and is well worth the trouble (it takes me about 7 hours per week).

 

Many of us tend to have certain weak spots in which we spend freely. Be creative with any trouble spots that your family has with money. If the problem is with buying books, learn to use the inter-library loan system to read any book in print for free. Do the same for music or videos. If it's the "gotta have a new outfit every day" attitude that is eating up the budget, learn where the best rerun and consignment shops are located.

If computer software is the weakness, explore some shareware catalogs for cheaper fare. If eating out is the problem, make tasty lunches for them to take.

 

The last tip that helped my husband "see the light" was to write down everything that we spent for one month. Categorize what you spent entertainment, food, subscriptions, clothes, household, hobbies, bank fees for overdraft charges, etc.) and figure the total for each category. See how much was wasted on trivia. Show your spouse the damage. He/she might become a convert then.

 

Convincing the kids to save can be equally as challenging as the spouse. The younger kids seem to need a different approach than the hormonal teenagers, so I will add some tips for the older kids separately.

 

While shopping, it is very easy to give in to a child's persistent whining about a toy or special food treat, especially when you are holding a toddler, a shopping list, and your diaper bag. It's easier to just grab what is convenient or familiar and get out of the store as fast as possible.

 

These are the times where your miserly skills are tested severely. The best way to solve this battle is to get your kids on your side. Get them to see the finances your way. If junior  understands that there is a limited amount of money to be spent at the store, then he will say, "Oh, yeah" when you remind him that you can't afford that impulse item or more expensive brand of cereal.

 

With this in mind, I have made some tips that have helped get my kids involved: While at the store, explain the total amount that you plan to spend at this store. Give them a calculator and have them keep a running total for you of what you have spent. It helps them see what it costs, and helps keep them busy. Control your own impulse shopping. If they are used to seeing you buy whatever you want when you go shopping, then they won't understand why they can't do the same. Let them see you put some of your things back when you realize you have gone beyond the budget. Use the opportunity to help them learn to make choices. Explain that if we buy this brand of cereal that we won't have enough money to do something else.

 

Ask them if they want to use their allowance to buy it. They then realize the value of money.
For the very persistent (and young), let them pick only one item that isn't budgeted for. All other wants have to be traded for that one, so that when you get to the cash register, they only have one item.

 

Teenagers are another story, with their own unique challenges. Here are some tips that have helped us: When shopping for clothes and the "name brand" bug bites the kids, give them their portion of the budgeted clothes money. This amount should be no more than what you would pay for good off-brand clothes on sale or at a rerun store. Let them make up the difference for designer label clothes by using their allowance and job money.

 

Show them how to shop for their name brand items at good resale, consignment and thrift shops.

 

For food, try these kitchen tested ideas:

 

Watch what is being snacked on. Snack foods and teenagers can be a costly combination. Make your own muffins, breads, pizza, drinks, etc.

 

If you can't make something very well (such as potato chips), stock up on them when they go on sale.

 

Also, since bulk eating is usually an issue, practice bulk cooking (cooking once a month,etc.)

 

Happy Frugality!

 

About the Author: Jonni McCoy and her family live in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She is the author of Miserly Moms, Frugal Families - Making the Most of Your Hard-Earned Money, and Miserly Meals. You can visit her website at http://www.miserlymoms.com.

 

 

MOTHER'S DAY GIFT IDEAS
Inexpensive ideas from readers of Mommysavers - Used by permission
http://www.momysavers.com 

 

Since we just purchased a home, we are cutting back on our gift spending. For Mother's Day, I am letting  my 5 year old make things. We bought a bag of colored sand with seashells at a dollar store. I also got small, glass votives to put the sand in and top it with a shell or two. Total cost per gift will be around  $.70 and everyone will enjoy knowing he made it. We will plant a flower seed in a votive or small flower pot. He will also make the cards with regular craft items .. buttons, markers, stamps, stickers, etc.  -- Nicole, 28, from TX

 

For Mother's Day, I am making all the mothers (mom, sister, friends) in my life personalized note cards.  I have used my leftover scrapbooking cardstock and I have created great looking cards for almost nothing. -- Katie, 32, from IN

 

This is my first Mother's Day. My daughter will be eleven months old. As a way to celebrate the day with her grandmother (my mom), we are having an all girls portrait taken of my mom, my sister, me, and my daughter. We will have four generations of family together. I will also save money by having the pictures taken at Sears studio using my $3.99 coupon. -- Michelle from IL

 

A creative keepsake or Mother's Day gift for Grandma...  a homemade brag book.  Determine the size of cardstock and number of pictures you want to use.  It's nice to keep it to one picture per page.  This is a good way to keep it simple.  It's also an easy way for those who are new to scrapbooking or just think they aren't crafty to get a feel for scrapbooking without feeling overwhelmed by the scope of the project.  You can put pictures on just the front side of each piece of paper or on both sides, and decorate however you want.  -- Carrie, 30, from WA

 

Here is a great Mother's Day gift that my daughter's kindergarten class made for all the moms last year.  Using cement mix (or plaster of Paris) pour the mixture into a plastic saucer that you can buy at the dollar store. They are made to go under planters to catch the overflow water.  Now you get a handful of different items and let the kids decorate it. Mine has a whole bunch of different things from the dollar store craft aisle. Like butterflies, beads, colorful rocks, even a handprint. My friend's was just a handprint and a ton of sparkles. Let it set overnight or maybe longer. Then you have a great garden stone! -- Kristin, 31, from Ontario

 

I have done this for the past 4 years in my Sunday School class (which is 2-3's). I take a small cheap whisk and have the kids fill it with the Hershey's Hugs & Kisses and then wrap cellophane around it with a bow and attach a tag that says, "Whisking you a Happy Mother's Day full of Hugs & Kisses" And then I let the kids draw a picture on the back.  They love doing this and it keeps them busy for a little bit while trying to stuff the kisses between the whisk. -- Jerri, 22, from TX

 

The best Mother's Day gift that I ever received was a homemade book of my daughter's artwork. All the pictures were on 8 x 11 1/2 paper and bound up with a laminated cover that my daughter also created. Now she enjoys looking through her artwork as much as I do! -- Maureen, 43, from Ontario

 

Usually I like to make all the Grammies a nice flower pot since it is the start of planting here.  This year I am using terra cotta pots and will use my DD's hand prints.  One will choose one color and the younger one will choose another, putting their prints around the pots.  One year I have photocopied pictures and used modge podge to put them onto the pots (better for indoor pots).  I've also used this handprint idea on shirts that my whole family got when money was tight the first Christmas after our DD was born. -- Courtney, 29, from PA
 

A nice Mother's Day gift is a memory jar. Fill a pretty jar with pieces of paper in it. On the paper you write down favorite memories you have of your mother/about your mother. Tie a ribbon around the jar and you have the perfect memory jar to give your mother as a gift. Your mother will enjoy picking out a "memory" and reading it. -- Brandy, 27, from IL

 

My children will be painting inexpensive terra cotta pots and planting our favorite perennials inside for a gift that lasts forever.  This year we will be planting strawberries to give to Grammy, and special neighbors,  for mother's day.  The pots were $2.00 - $8.00 depending on the size.  The special paints found at a craft store were $1.49 per color.  The sealant was around $6.00, and the strawberry plants were free from our garden.  -- Amy, 33, from NY

 

I had my kids paint their hands and then hand stamp inexpensive muslin fabric.   We made throw pillows out of them with names and dates.  Made nice mother's day gifts for Grandmother.  This could be used for Father's Day too. Might be fun to paint feet if you have babies or younger children. -- Frances, 48

 

A Mother's Day potluck brunch is always fun.  We make those special dishes we love but can't have very often.  We also bring extra plants, seeds and cuttings from our flower beds and trade and share.  It's a great relaxing social meal instead of grabbing bites of cold food between spills and cutting up food for little ones. The new plants are a reminder of our growing friendship throughout the summer. -- Nancy, 40, from WI

 

This may seem like a "no-brainer" to most of you, but my Mom says the best Mother's Day present she ever got was when I sent her a letter.  I just used some nice stationery I new she would like and sat down to tell her how much I appreciate her.  I spent very little money but the impact was huge. -- Elizabeth, 35, from LA

 

I do have a tip, but I must admit that it is on the more serious side. My tip or piece of advice goes out to those of you who may know someone who has lost a child(ren) during pregnancy and who has no other children. These mothers are so, often neglected and overlooked. Mother's Day can be such a painfully difficult day for them and in some cases can be a day they absolutely dread. Reach out to them, let them know you are thinking about them. Send them a card, or drop by with flowers, or a single rose for each child lost. Let them know that they ARE mothers....only their children are waiting for them in Heaven. This can make a huge impact and you will touch your loved one more than you could ever imagine. -- Amy from MN

 

 

KIDS' QUOTES
Yesterday 3 year old Sam told me, "Mommy! Jesus makes me happy!" ~ Beth Brochu in NC 

 

My daughter was taking 5 year old Justin to school one morning, driving through a woodsy area, taking a new route in their large city.  She pointed out a few deer along the road.  Justin exclaimed, "Mom!  This feels like an adventure!" ~ Lois

 

Five year old Justin's plastic airplane had broken and he asked his daddy to fix it, but Daddy told him, "I think it's past repair!"  Justin's quick reply was, "We need to call Pawpa and Grammie!  They can fix it!" ~ Lois

 

After another unsuccessful attempt of baking homemade bread, as I stood there surveying the broken loaf, I made a sorrowful comment and my two year old Matthew noticed my deep disappointment and said, "C'y?"  (Cry?) ~ Jalisa Wenger in PA

 

 

MY FAVORITE HONEY WHOLE WHEAT BREAD
Many years ago I got this wonderful and very easy recipe from a friend, Julie Pizzino, in Virginia.  Our family has made this recipe so many times through the years.  The kids often enjoyed helping to make it!  We've also used it to make Pennsylvania Dutch sticky buns.  Before slicing the roll of sticky buns with a long piece of thread, and putting the buns into pans of honey and chopped nuts, we'd have such a long stretched out roll that I'd curve it back and forth on the table and we'd make a face at one end.  The kids always loved that!

 

Dissolve:
4 Tbsp. yeast (Purchase in bulk at a health food store or Sam's and keep in freezer)
5 cups warm water
 
Add and mix in:                                   Add gradually and continue mixing:
1 cup honey (or less)                               1 Tbsp. salt
6 Tbsp. olive or canola oil                       6 cups whole wheat flour
                                                                   6 cups unbleached flour
 
Mix everything together well.  Turn dough out onto a floured table.  Cover hands with oil and knead dough.  If dough is too sticky, and it probably will be, gradually add more flour and knead for at least 10 minutes, until dough no longer sticks to your hands.  Try not to get the dough too dry by adding too much flour.
 
Oil a large basin and put dough into it, turning it to coat the top of the dough with oil.  Cover lightly with plastic wrap and set in a warm place to rise - such as in front of the refrigerator.  It will still rise just a room temperature though.  Let rise until double.  Punch down and knead a little more.  Take a piece of dough large enough to fill about half of a greased baking pan.  Knead a bit to get rid of air bubbles and shape into a loaf pan.  This recipe yields 4 loaves.  Let rise until doubled in size again.  No need to cover dough this time.  When the dough has expanded, carefully place loaves into a preheated oven of 350 degrees and bake for 30 minutes until baked through.  Absolutely delicious!
 
Variations of Bread: Other whole grain flours may be substituted for a portion of the whole wheat flour -start with 1/2 to 1 cup.  Experiment with cracked wheat soaked in hot water, as well as sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, rolled oats, or other grains, seeds, and nuts.  Flour will vary with different additions.  Even finely chopped fruit and finely grated carrots could be added to yeast breads, as well as pureed pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots.  Start with small amounts.

 

For Sticky Buns, use a rolling pin to roll out dough, forming a long rectangle.  Spread soft butter over the top, and spread sucanat (or brown sugar), raisins (or craisins) and cinnamon evenly over the butter.  Roll up tightly and cut by placing a 12 inch long heavy thread or thin dental floss under the end of the roll, crisscrossing the thread to cut the dough.  Cut about 1 inch thick.  Place rolls in pans, already lined with honey and chopped nuts.  Let dough rise again, as you would with bread.  Bake according to directions above, and while still hot, turn out the sticky buns by inverting them onto a platter to serve.  Or invert onto aluminum foil lined with plastic wrap to freeze for a special treat later or give as a gift.  Yum!

 

 

BABY ANNOUNCEMENT

Brayden Joshua Harris was born on March 20, 2008 to Phillip and Natalie Harris.  Brayden is the first grandchild of Rick and Jeri Harris, all living in Virginia.  Many blessings to all!

 

        HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY & DAUGHTER'S DAY TO EACH OF YOU!
       My heart grieves for the ladies who have lost a child, mother or another family member,

          and you are in my prayers!            

Please remember to pray for each dear Heart to Heart lady as you receive your newsletter.
                           Many ladies are going through very tough times and need our prayers!
              Pray each day for the protection of our troops, as well as for their families left at home!

(¨`·.·´¨)                         God bless you and your family and keep you in His loving care!

 `·.¸(¨`·.·´¨)                             And remember, I love to hear from you dear ladies!

      `·.¸.·´                                                Your Heart to Heart friend,                                                                

"Heart to Heart"                                                                             Lois     

 

The purpose of the Heart to Heart Newsletter is to encourage women and build biblical values into daily living through practical creative ideas for the Christian family regarding marriage, children, homemaking, and much more.  Receive this free bimonthly newsletter by listing your name, city, state, e-mail address, and name of your referral person and sending it to Lois at [email protected].  New subscribers will receive a Welcome, a "Start-Up Kit," and several recent newsletters.

 

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