Category: Healthy Family Relationships

What’s For Dinner?

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

images-3In our fast paced world with all of the conveniences at our fingertips it’s hard to imagine having enough time to actually cook a nutritious meal that doesn’t have some ingredient that is processed. Many recipe’s today include opening a can of this or a box of that. I may be a cooking snob but when I see these things I usually discard the recipe unless I can make the ingredient fresh.

The media helps us in this thinking that we need nothing but convenience when it comes to our meals. I love the Olympics so I dusted off the TV and turned it on and really enjoyed the stories of the athletes and their competitions. What I didn’t enjoy is the bombardment of the media and their convenience foods. The Mom talking about how “toasted” she is at the end of the day so she stops by KFC and gets her family a meal.

I was thinking now she isn’t only toasted she’s fried too!!

With a little bit of planning it is not difficult to cook healthy meals with nutritious single ingredient simple foods. The best place to start is on the weekend, this is a great time to plan the weeks meals and strategize about how to make it more simple and convenient. Planning ahead will guarantee you will have all ingredients at hand and any prepping can be done ahead of time.

Todays meal is Cajun Chicken Gumbo so I planned ahead.
This take about 7 hours to cook in a slow cooker so the best part about it is that you put everything together and leave it. When you get home, dinner is cooked.

Last night because we had a planned out meal it was simple to chop up the onions, peppers, celery and garlic and seal it up in the fridge. Then this morning I took 15 minutes to make my roux and cook my sausage at the same time and drain. A small amount of Italian sausage is the only processed item in this recipe, Gumbo just isn’t the same without it. When it is pre-cooked and drained it is much healthier than cooking it in the gumbo like most recipe’s call for.

Another thing that I do for convenience is that I can organic chicken breast meat in jars. It is amazing for quick meals where chicken is called for. I only use it if time is an issue or there is no chicken on hand, it is an amazing time saver. I will go through the steps for you so you can learn how to can your own chicken in an upcoming blog but for now lets stick to the gumbo.

Shelli’s Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo:

1/3 cup Flour
1/3 cup Canola oil/ cooking oil
3 cup Water
12 OZ Cooked Italian Sausage
1 1/2 cup Cooked Shredded Chicken
1 cup Onion chopped
3/4 cup Sweet Green Pepper chopped
1/2 cup Celery chopped
6 cloves Garlic minced
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Black pepper
1/2 tsp crushed red peppers
3 cups cooked rice

Prep time 30 minutes
Cook time 7 hours

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To make roux: combine oil and flour in pan, cook on medium heat for about 15 minutes stirring constantly until it is a rich dark reddish brown color like the photo, set aside and let it cool (hint: take if off the heat before it is to the finish point and it will finish as the pan cools, make sure and stir it occasionally)
Cook and drain the sausage and cook and shred the chicken (or open a jar of home canned chicken)
Chop all vegetables.DSC_0176
Add 3 cups of water to a pan, add the roux, it will look like the photo

 

Add the sausage, chicken and vegetables and let it simmer all day.
When you get home it will be done. Serve over rice. it’s delicious!

 

Because dinner was so easy tonight, you can plan for tomorrows meal and prepare anything that needs to be chopped ahead of time.

A great hint if you don’t have a timer on your crock pot is to buy one for the wall and plug the crock pot into that, set the time for 7 hours and head off to work.

There is no substitute for fresh locally grown food that is cooked freshly delicious.

Bon Appetite!

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I’m Guilty

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

Okay, I’m guilty.

Not anything I am proud of, that’s the way things of this nature go.

I am guilty of being impatient.

Impatient with someone that I should not be.  Impatient because things aren’t happening in MY time.  Getting grouchy because they haven’t.

Honestly it came down to a time that a discussion needed to happen, I was so impatient that it had to happen RIGHT NOW.

I’m sure you have encountered “My Kind” before haven’t you?

We may say it’s our prerogative as a woman to change our mind, never was it written in the “guide lines” that we had the prerogative to be Impatient.

Impatience accomplishes absolutely nothing.  People will move at their own pace, you will have a difficult time controlling that.

What we can control is our own emotions because we share them with others whether you like it or not.

Let’s talk……

What I found out is something I already knew, we came from two different environments.  Two different styles of families and two different styles of parenting.  That is what make us all individuals right?

From my side, I was the “over-looked” one. Quiet, didn’t need much attention, so I didn’t get it.  With 2 other kids making a heck of a lot more noise than me, I understand how something like this can happen.  My Immediate family is still all around within about 5 miles of me.

From the other side, the person was adored, never had to question the importance that they held in their family, splitting image of the father, who passed away at a young age. Grandparents to dote, and aunts and uncles as well.  Many of whom have passed away.

Two totally different worlds.

I feel like I have to be heard, and charge to the front

From the other side, they are happy letting someone else win and take pleasure in their joy, they are able to sit back and wait to say something until it is important.

I am So Guilty.

As I read this I think I could use some of what this other person has.

I understand about the two different worlds and everything, now how about the impatience issue (which only belongs to me)

The other person explained it very simply to me in just one sentence.

They said, “You know I don’t really like to make people mad, I would rather not create anger directed at me. I have already lost so many people (to death) in my life and I really don’t want to lose anyone else, especially when they are alive”.

That was one of the most powerful sentences anyone has EVER said to me. I am sure I looked like a Deer in Headlights at that moment…..

Just when you think “you know everything” RIGHT?

I am GUILTY as Charged (charged by myself) because the person that I was talking to would never “gloat” or “charge me guilty”.  They just ask for Understanding and Acceptance, that is the least that I can offer along with my Apology.

I am working on Patience, Many times it is directed at myself.  I may slip because I am not perfect, I am a work in progress.

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Happy Birthday To Our Sweet Daughter

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

It was 27 years ago today that a great love affair was started.  I became a Mother for the first time and it absolutely changed my life forever.

The moment I had waited for and planned for, didn’t come the way I had imagined it.  The first thing I didn’t imagine is that I would be kept waiting for two weeks after my due date.  You my dear were on your own time schedule, as far as you could see, there was no rush to get out into the world.

You made your appearance at just 12 minutes after midnight following a long day of being in labor.

And there you were, as beautiful as I had imagined.  You were so interested in looking around at your new world, you didn’t cry you just sneezed, and sneezed and then our eyes met.  Your beautiful blue eyes and we recognized each other as our heart beat on the same beat, synchronized forever.

I could not believe the miracle I was holding in my arms, an angel sent from heaven for me to love and to teach and to mold into the beautiful woman that you have become.

You amaze me every day with your beauty and your intelligence.  I love your silly sense of humor and the practical way you look at the world.  You are such a strong person and I have confidence in you that you can handle anything that comes your way.

I am so proud of you and everything you are.  You are now and will always be a part of me.  I think back on the years and how quickly they seemed to pass, and then I realize that even though it seems like yesterday that I held you in my arms for the first time, it actually is. 

Because each time we hug and I hold you in my arms it feels like that first time all over again and I am reminded of how much I Love, Admire and Cherish you for the beautiful person you are.

Happy Birthday My Sweet, Sweet Daughter.  May every wish, every dream and every hope for your future be yours today and every day of the rest of your life.

 

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I Devote Time To My Family

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

Many times we forget to count our blessings, we think the problems out-weigh the blessings and if that’s the case you need to count again, chances are, you have missed some of the blessings.

Family is a blessing and sometimes because it is so much work we start to think of it as drudgery, when really family is one of the blessings we have and that is WHY it is so much work.

I know you have heard that things worth having are worth working for and I find this to be true. That is why this affirmation is so powerful when we take time to reflect on what we have in our lives.

I devote time to my family.

My family is by my side through thick and thin. We rise above all challenges because we stick together in both good times and bad.

I am a busy person. Not only do I work a fulltime job, but I also have other responsibilities. However, no responsibility is great enough to stop me from spending time with my family.

My children deserve to spend time with both of their parents. For this reason, we schedule family game or movie nights twice each week. We also eat dinner together every night.

Yes, sometimes the family huddles up around the TV for dinner. But, who cares if we are not sitting formally at a dinner table? As long as we’re together, everything is perfect!

My parents mean the world to me.

They raised, loved, and nurtured me into adulthood. Even if my schedule is hectic, I make it a point to call my parents often and setup a family brunch once each month.

I devote time to family, not because I feel obligated, but because I want to. I enjoy interacting with my children and watching them grow each day.

I make time for my spouse because we work very hard to maintain our quality of life and we deserve some alone time every now and then. At heart, we are still just two college kids in love and ready for anything! My marriage is one of my main priorities.

Today, I set aside all distractions and spend time with my family. Without the company of my family, all of the material things in this world would mean nothing. I cherish our bond and nurture it more and more each day.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Do I place my career before my family?

2. How can my family spend quality time together without sitting in front of a television?

3. Do I pay enough attention to my spouse?

Gives you something to think about doesn’t it?

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Looking forward to Spending Time With Your Family

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

So many times in our hectic world we get so stressed out that we really do forget that we look forward to spending time with out family.  Everyone is so busy and sometimes it seems like a chore to go to a baseball game or a recital. We need to take the time to remember that we are spending time with and supporting those that we love the most.  Take a deep breath and remind your self of a few things.  Affirmations are a great way to get back on track so say this to your self.

I look forward to spending time with my family.

Spending quality time with my family is just one of the ways I show them how much I love them. I seek opportunities to get away with my loved ones. The time we spend together is completely voluntary.

The time that I give my family is an investment in our relationship. More than money, time is the greatest gift I can give to a person. My loved ones benefit deeply from the time I give them.

I look forward to spending time with my family every day. When I get home from work, I make it a point to devote more time to my family than I do to the television because the people in my life are worth more than my entertainment.

On the weekend, I carve out time to devote to my family. Whether we are doing chores indoors or enjoying some downtime outside, our time together makes me rich. Simply being in each other’s company is enough to ensure a pleasant time.

I have a positive outlook on family time. Our time is marked by laughter, songs, games, and harmony. Peace is present in my home; therefore our time together is pleasant.

I look forward to the summer, when my children are out of school and we get to spend even more time together. The memories I make with my family during summer vacations will stay with my children for years to come.

Today, I choose to reignite my passion for my family by spending time with them. I look forward to making new memories with my loved ones.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Does my time spent with family feel forced or voluntary?

2. What can I do to improve the quality of the time I spend with my family?

3. How can I show my loved ones that I enjoy being around them?

Taking time out for this simple affirmation will get you on the right track and right frame of mind when spending time with your family. Life is stressful whether you work outside the home or not, Being happy is up to all of us as individuals. Find out more about happiness, don’t wait, CLICK HERE to find out more.

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Having The Strength To Run A Successful Business And Care For A Family

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

Affirmations are a great way to feel good about what you do.  Running a business from home can be a challenge.  There isn’t anyone telling you what needs to be done and some family members may not put the importance on your business that you do and that is okay.  The main thing is that you stay strong and successful so that you can provide for your family.

Take a breath of fresh air and a quiet moment (if you can find it) and repeat this affirmation.  If you are feeling weak, it will give you strength, unsure? it will give you confidence.  Most of all believe in your self and do what you know needs to be done.

I have the strength to run a successful business from home while also caring for my children.

I am an amazing person who gets to enjoy the best of both worlds. Not only do I work my dream job, I also have the privilege of spending my days with my children.

Life can get hectic between kids, business, and home concerns, but I am able to balance it all with grace. I devote time to my children, take care of my home, serve my clients, and also take time out for myself.

Balance is the key to my success. I take life one day at a time. I keep an organized schedule to stay on track. Planning schedules is a mountain that I can surmount with ease.

As a parent, I spend quality time making memories with my children. I educate my kids through books, movies, outings, and hands-on experiences. I plan play dates for my children to socialize with other kids while I enjoy the company of my friends.

As a business owner, I separate my business from my home responsibilities. My children come first in everything I do. My clients know and respect that my family is my top priority. My business is booming because I am passionate about what I do.

There is never a dull moment around me. I feel blessed beyond measure, and I know that blessing is to be paid forward.

Today, I enjoy the fullness of my life. I take full advantage of every opportunity by eradicating idleness and I maximize the use of every moment.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. How do I balance home life with business life?

2. Am I willing to ask for help when I feel overwhelmed?

3. What do I love most about my life as a work-at-home parent?

Just a few moments to get your head on squarely is all that most home business owners need to get through a hectic day or week.  Take that time for your self and you will find that you will be much more productive and that will leave more time to spend with your family.

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Accept and Love Your Family Members As They Are.

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

Many times we would like to change behaviors in the ones we love that don’t seem to be of any value to us.  What we need to realize is that we are all different and that is what makes life interesting.  We look different but more importantly we think differently.  We need to love and accept people no matter their idiosyncrasies as I am sure you would like others to love and accept you.

Take time out and examine the way you think about your loved ones.  Are you accepting of the way they are or would you be tempted to change some things about them.  Acceptance is part of being happy so it would be advantageous for you to take some time and repeat this affirmation so that you can get on the road of acceptance.

I can love my family members as they are.

My love is a free gift that I offer to others without any strings attached. There are no pre-requisites to being cherished by me. I love because I choose to love.

When I make the choice to love the members of my family, nothing can get in the way. The manner in which my family members look or dress is irrelevant to me. I embrace my family for who they are, not for how they look.

I relinquish my desire to control the way people behave. On the contrary, I welcome the different ways people carry themselves as a beautiful blend of personalities, like a garden filled with various types of flowers. Each one is as beautiful as any other.

Regardless of whether my family members are shy or loud, uptight or free spirited, wealthy or poor, wise or ignorant, I choose to love them just the way they are. I enjoy being loved the way I am; therefore, I love others without needing to change them first.

At times my family members may lash out in an unloving way towards me. Instead of responding in kind, I rise above the hurt and respond with compassion.

Although I love my family, I know that not all of them are trustworthy. I choose to cherish even the members of my family whom I cannot trust. I am strong enough to humble myself and love people who fall short of my expectations.

Today, I choose to love all of the members of my family with kindness and patience. I cultivate the best in myself as I accept their imperfections and love them no matter what.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Do I love unconditionally?

2. How can I separate love from trust?

3. Who do I need to show more love to in my family?

Just these three simple questions can make you see if there is some work to do in accepting people the way they are without feeling the need to change them.

The simple act of encouragement will build self confidence in your children. They will be secure in your love when you accept them as they are, find out more about encouragement, CLICK HERE and find out more.

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Family Time Is My Treasure

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

The world is full of stress and we all need an escape from it.  Family time is the perfect time to be able to relax and enjoy the people you love and care about the most. Learn to relax and you will come to realize that

Family time is Your treasure.

Find a quiet spot and take some time to repeat to yourself how much you treasure your family time and how you feel energized after being together.

Maybe something like:

Each day, I set aside time to spend with my loved ones. Just as I make time for working, eating, and sleeping, I make time for my family. Jobs come and go, but the moments I spend with my family last forever.

I value any time I spend with my family. Whether I am able to spend long hours or only a few minutes daily, it is always a pleasure to spend it with my family.

By making time for my family, I am building a legacy of love and togetherness to pass on to my children. My actions make it clear to my family that they are important to me. My children have a healthy self-concept because they feel valued.

I feel refreshed after spending time with my family. I make the most of the time we spend together. I look for ways to make everyone laugh aloud and enjoy the time as much as I do.

Family time breaks up the monotony of everyday life. When I allow my loved ones the freedom to speak their hearts and have fun, I also feel free.

I refrain from complaining during family time by focusing on the positive. My uplifting words fall into the hearts of my children and help them feel good about themselves.

Today, I choose to connect and engage with my family in a positive way. I make time for us to be together.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. What is my favorite family activity?

2. How can I increase the amount of time my family enjoys together?

3. How can I improve the quality of my family’s time together?

Asking your self these questions will help you to gauge how much time the family does spend together and what types of things they enjoy.  Finding the “treasure” in family time is so simple, CLICK HERE to find out how you can get the spark back into your family time

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Staying Home and Raising the Children is Rewarding.

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

 

 

In these times it really is a privilege to be able to stay at home and raise the children.  This is something that Mom’s 50 years ago didn’t even think twice about.  Today it is a necessity due to economics to have both parents work outside of the home.

Many times all the working people want to do is be at home with their kids and raise them as they see fit.  And then the stay at home parents start to get bored and feel totally un-appreciated would like to go out and get paid for what they do.

It is our duty to raise children that are compatible with society and we would like our own values instilled as well.  When we give our children to others to raise we do give up some of ability to oversee what is actually instilled in our children.

If you have the privilege to have a quiet moment, take it and say this affirmation out loud and repeat it if necessary.

I delight in staying home with my children.

My choice to stay at home with my children is something I am proud of. Although draining at times, I am committed to doing the best job I can at raising my children.

My calling as a parent is to nurture my children socially, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. For me, staying at home is the best way to fulfill that purpose. My life’s devotion is to foster a healthy home for my whole family.

I am grateful for the blessing that I have to spend my days watching my children flourish before my very eyes. I am present in my children’s lives to witness every new accomplishment. I celebrate their triumphs and help them overcome challenges.

Staying home gives me the opportunity to teach my children about life just the way I want to. I am able to pass on family ideologies and spiritual beliefs to secure their identity.

I appreciate my spouse’s support for my choice to stay home. My spouse works hard for me to have the privilege of staying home. While my spouse works hard outside of the home, I work hard at home to teach our children.

I am accountable for the time I have at home. My time is spent on educational activities and outings with the kids. I refrain from wasting time on idleness. The television, computer, and even household chores, fall second to taking care of my children.

Today, I celebrate my ability to stay home.

I am free from guilt about not having a full time job outside of the home because staying home with the children is a full time job of its own.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Do I ever feel guilty about staying home?

2. How can I maximize my time at home with my children?

3. Why do I love staying home with my children?

Reflecting on these questions will help you get a handle on where you are at.  Many times if we don’t get a handle on it, stay at home parents can start to feel a little resentful.  Taking care of kids is a full time job and I don’t believe I have ever heard a toddler tell their Mom or Dad how much they appreciate them, they are much more likely to pay you back for your patience with a tantrum. Click HERE to read about teaching your toddler about calmness.

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Parent Support Groups

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

So many times in our busy world it can feel like you are alone.  It is important to feel supported in order to be effective. There are so many places you can go to get that support.  Church, community centers, friends and family, neighbors, YMCA, meet ups and many support groups have regular meetings in different locations.  If you feel a lack of support you need to get out there and check out what is available to you in your area.

Affirmations can make you feel more confident to get yourself out there so that you can find the support you need.  Starting with your own self will also prepare you to be open and receptive to the support.  Find a quiet place for reflection and repeat the following words or similar words, if you hear them repeated your mind will start to believe.

I am surrounded by a caring parent support group.

Everywhere I go, I run into people who are eager to offer their help. From the doctor’s office to the nearby playground, I can reap the wisdom of experienced parents. I feel blessed to have such a large selection of resources.

Parenting is challenging regardless of my child’s age. I also realize that every child truly is different. Yet, when I open myself up to other parents, I gain more than just knowledge; I gain friends.

Whenever I find myself facing a challenge, I am quick to speak up in order to find someone who has had a similar challenge. I listen to the advice of experienced parents and draw from their wisdom.

If I feel lonely or just want some company, I know who I can call. There are other parents waiting by the phone, wishing someone would invite them on an outing. I take the initiative to plan gatherings for other parents.

I am surrounded by a community that cares about my children and me. People who offer their advice are simply trying to prevent me from repeating some of their own mistakes. I value the input of others.

Fear and shame are absent from my heart because there are countless parents who have struggles just like mine. The more I search, the more I find that the struggles I experience are very common.

Today, I choose to embrace the caring support group available to me. I welcome others into my life and benefit from what they have to offer.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. What keeps me from reaching out to other parents?

2. Who has helped me in the past that I can I talk to when I need support?

3. What do I have to offer to other parents?

Taking the time for your self, asking these questions will help you to move forward.  Click here to read more about life skills training.

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Are you Preparing Your Children For Academic Excellence?

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

There are all sorts of stop and starts in a childs year, from summer to school, from Christmas Vacation right into a new year, this applies to any sort of break your kids have wether it be a summer break, spring break or Christmas vacation.  Taking time out and saying these things to yourself gives you a compass as to where you are in the process of preparing your children for academic excellence.

Take some time out in a quiet place for reflection and say these things to your self:

I am preparing my children for a successful academic year.

My children are ready for school because I take time to prepare them mentally and spiritually. I teach my children to value education by displaying a positive attitude about learning.

I talk to my children about my own memories of school as a child with honesty and transparency. They love hearing me talk about what I enjoyed as a child. Sharing my stories with my children helps them look forward to their own experiences.

My children are prepared to succeed because I am on top of my game. I keep up with the school calendar of events. I attend open house night to learn about the teacher’s expectations so I can begin preparing my children.

It is challenging to readjust to a routine of waking up early to go to school. That is why I begin to practice the new schedule with my kids a few weeks before school starts. By the time school actually begins, my kids’ bodies will be used to the earlier start.

Over their time off, I continue to engage my children in learning by encouraging them to read daily and participate in educational activities. Learning is a fun game, not a chore, in our home.

If one of my children struggles with a subject, I pay extra attention to that subject over our vacation break, so they can master it.

I speak uplifting words to encourage my children, because the better they feel about themselves, the better they perform.

Today, I choose to start the process of preparing for back to school. I cover all my bases and stay on top of my game to set my children up for success.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. How can I prepare my children for academic success?

2. What attitude do I reflect toward school?

3. Am I keeping up with the school calendar?

these are great questions to ask your self when measuring your effectiveness in your child’s education. Read more about helping your child to build More Self Confidence and Click HERE.

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When School is Out, Kids Still Learn

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

Many times as Parents we look forward to Summer time, then it only takes about a week with the kids home from school and we realize that maybe it was better when they were occupied every day.  

Finding ways to keep them busy during summer and holiday breaks can be a real challenge.  Keep the Learning on the forefront and see your children reap the benefits.

This simple affirmation will allow you a moment to assess how things are going with ongoing education and your participation as a parent.

I am fully equipped to educate my children when they are out of school.

When my children are out of school, I am fully capable of continuing to build their knowledge. I am a natural teacher looking for ways to expand their knowledge by seizing teachable moments.

I keep my eyes open for the science lessons found in nature. I ask questions to spark their curiosity and allow them to explore their world for answers.

While it is good to give kids a break to play and relax, it is also necessary to maintain their brains and keep them from becoming idle.

The public library has an unlimited number of resources that I can use to promote learning while the kids are out of school. I am committed to taking my children to the library on a regular basis so they can find books or magazines to read.

There are a number of resources available to parents who want to help their children. I communicate with my children’s teachers, look for workbooks at local stores, and search educational websites for material.

I have what it takes to keep my children entertained while out of school. The time my children spend at home from school is time well spent in reading and continuing to expand their minds.

It is important to me that my children continue to exercise their brains during the summer so that they will be ready to jump back into the swing of things when school starts up again.

Today, I choose to prepare myself to educate my children while they are out of school.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. How do I feel about having the kids at home from school?

2. Where can I find resources to assist me in teaching my children?

3. How can I prepare myself to continue building their education at home?

Just taking a moment to have this conversations with yourself will enable you to have a better grip on your child’s education. Instilling the love of learning in your child is a great way to help them get ahead.  Read More about the Love of Learning by Clicking Here

 

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Respect your Relatives and Enjoy the Holidays

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

To be able to really relax and enjoy the holidays this simple affirmation has the capability of changing a bad attitude into a festive holiday outlook, so take a deep breath and give it a try.

I respect my relatives and enjoy my holiday time with them.

Sometimes, a lot of people in a small space can cause tension. To stay at peace I take the time to appreciate my relatives. Everyone has differences and I respect the differences between my relatives and me.

Because I appreciate my relatives, we have a good time together. They see that I respect and value them, so they give me respect and value in return. We care for one another and treat one another with kindness. Differences of opinion are interesting, and can provide good and helpful discussions about life and the future.

At every holiday, I enjoy the time with my relatives more and more. They become more valuable to me all the time because I make the effort to get to know them and understand them. I realize the importance of family relationships and I experience a close, intimate connection with my family members.

When I feel stressed or crowded, I take a deep breath and let it roll off my back. My holiday celebrations are filled with relaxation and calmness. The people in my family are worthy of my respect, and they give their respect to me. I look forward to spending holiday time with them. We always have a good time when we get together as a family for the holidays.

Today, I enjoy the time I get to spend with my relatives during the holidays.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. How can I show more respect and love to my relatives?

2. What can I do to make the holidays even better for my loved ones?

3. Are there ways I can learn to appreciate my relatives more than I already do?

By taking the time and going through the steps you can start to have the most amazing holidays every year for the rest of your life.

Click Here to find out how

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Strengthen the Bond With your Kids

Posted on by Shelli Thompson

Few things are more important in life than the bond you share with your children. If you lack a close relationship with your kids, the bond can be a source of pain and anguish, while a strong connection with your kids can bring incredible joy and happiness.

If you’ve lost the closeness that you crave, you can strengthen the relationship in four practical ways.

Help Them With Homework

Help your children with their homework to show them that you’re interested in their education. This also lets them know that they can rely on you when they need help. The message you send is that they’re more valuable to you than anything else you could be spending your time doing.

Life is hectic and time is short and, one day, the time to develop this bond may be gone. Seize the day by taking the time to help your kids with their homework. If you do this on a regular basis, you may find the conversation wandering away from homework to topics that give you a glimpse into what’s most important to your kids.

Share Their Interests

Join your kids in activities and interests that they choose. Children naturally gravitate toward projects and activities they’re interested in, so ask questions about the activities they choose to engage in! Become curious about what makes them tick, and let them know that you’re curious. Fuel their passion and draw them close to you by sharing in what they love.

Find Common Interests

If you feel like you have nothing in common with your children, try to expose them to something that you really care about. Introduce them to your passions in a kid-friendly way and make the activity as fun for them as possible, while sharing your interests with them.

Often, your enthusiasm and interest in your children will cause them to become interested in the things you like, but be willing to accept that they may not enjoy the same things you do, no matter how hard you try. The closeness you experience when you share something you both enjoy is exhilarating.

Most lifelong passions start at childhood. Many passions are handed down from generation to generation. If you desire a lifelong closeness with your children, introduce them to the things you care about. Involve them and stir their curiosity, while communicating acceptance and love no matter what their interests may be.

If you aren’t sure where to begin, try one of these activities:

• Take your children fishing.

• Take them to your favorite team’s sporting event.

• Take them shopping at their favorite store.

• Try a mommy or daddy date with a meal at your favorite restaurant (or theirs).

• Show them your favorite (age-appropriate) movie.

• Read a favorite book together.

Frequently, the activity itself isn’t what children remember. The time you spend with them creates the memory. Your availability and interest are the two most important factors in creating the close relationship you deserve with your children.

Include Everyone

With one child, it’s fairly easy to incorporate the entire family in activities that strengthen the bond between you. If you have more than one child, however, remember to spread your attention and activities among them as evenly as possible.

A little effort goes a long way. Just make an effort, and your children will see that you really do want a close relationship with them more than anything else. Most importantly, begin today! It’s easier to create bonds with your children that last forever when they’re younger. Make your children a priority, and you’ll be rewarded with a bond that will last a lifetime.

Looking forward to the wonderful adults they will become, the relationship they have with you will be key in their success throughout the years.

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