Family Encouragement by Lori B. Snider

As summer winds down, you may need an extra dose of encouragement or perspective. Then, don’t forget to pass it on to your family.

Being a Mom has been one of my greatest JOYS in life! I can remember as the nurse placed the first pink bundle of joy in my arms, I thought, it doesn’t get any better than this!

As my girls got older and were in Elementary School, I would often comment on how much I loved being a Mom. I can remember on more than one occasion, someone saying, “Well, just wait until middle school!” or “You won’t be saying that when they turn 16!” Ladies, I’m here to tell you that I refused to claim those words! Each stage of childhood has presented it own challenges, but more than that, each stage presented new and amazing joys!

Please don’t let the comments of other parents cloud your mind with negative words and thoughts. Continue to look for the good in each season of your child’s development. Yes, there will be difficult times, but God will bring both of you through! And while you’re at it, say those positive words out loud for your child and other parents to hear.

Here are some tips for passing on encouraging words to your kids:
1. I left my daughters notes on their pillows, their place at the table, on the steering wheel of the car (once they were driving!!), etc. that told them how much I loved them and what an honor it was to be their Mom!
2. Use Post-its and write a short love note or encouragement or Bible verse and put it on the mirror in their bathroom, at their place at the table, on their bedroom door, or inside their special drinking cup.
3. Change things up with your notes to make them fun.
• Write backwards so they can decode in the mirror
• Use stickers, glitter, or funny pictures
• Have the note be from a family pet
4. Make a checklist like: “We’ve been so busy, looking forward to some fun with you. What do you want to do?"
___ Go for pizza
___ Go to a movie
___ Go for a bike ride
___ Your suggestion ___________

Our children hear enough negative remarks from the world, let your words be discipline when necessary, but praise and love whenever possible!

Please share an idea of how you encourage the members of your family.


Lori is an Assoicate with iBloom. Check out her bio page.

ATTENTION, ATTENTION: SUMMER HAS ARRIVED! by Betsy Ringer, Transition Physician

When I was in junior high - middle school for most of you- Nat King Cole (Natalie Cole's dad) had a song that started out, "Roll out those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer..."

I hope you are truly experiencing a joyful summer! Feel the heat. Listen to the laughter. Do something you’ve never done before. Thank God for blessings.

And if you are wondering how in the world you are going to get everything done, as your Coach:

1. I give you permission to NOT do three things today.

2. My prescription includes dropping everything for three hours and go do something fun.

3. AT LEAST make a yummy summer dessert like Fruit Pizza!

FRUIT PIZZA

2 pkgs. cream cheese
1 roll refrigerated sugar cookie dough
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. sugar (or to taste)
Pizza pan
Assorted fruit suggestions: Kiwi, strawberries, pineapple, bananas, or blueberries.

Spread cookie dough over pizza pan. Cook the crust as directed on wrapper. Soften cream cheese. Add vanilla and sugar. Spread cream cheese mixture on top of cooled cookie. Cut and lay fruit in circles. Serve immediately.

Enjoy these lazy, hazy, mostly CRAZY days of summer!

Please share a yummy summer dessert or an idea to have fun!! CLICK HERE TO SHARE!

Betsy’s specialty is helping women navigate new life directions:

• Discovering your design and purpose
• Changing job/career
• Growing in a Leadership role
• Moving into Midlife and beyond
• Experiencing new life stage or role
• Stuck and wanting to move forward

She also speaks to women’s groups and conducts workshops that help women discover their design and live the vital life they were meant to live.

Visit her bio and speaking page at: http://www.ibloom.us/associates/betsy.html

Name Your Big Rocks First by Betsy Ringer, "Transition Physician"

So, I LOVE helping women navigate transitions in life. Transition is a synonym for progression! When we are in transition we “feel” stuck, but if we can view it as progressing, we will have a whole new outlook. Some typical transitions include:

• Discovering your design and purpose
• Changing job/career
• Growing in a Leadership role
• Moving into Midlife and beyond
• Experiencing new life stage or role
• Stuck and wanting to move forward

Something that gets me stuck sometimes and unable to move forward is not taking the time to name my priorities. I work like a crazy woman and feel like I’m not getting anywhere. I get a lot done, but not what I REALLY want to get done. I work with a lot of women and I know this is a common issue.

I invite you to watch this TERRIFIC video and learn the importance of putting your “Big Rocks First!”

Big Rocks First video

Please click here and let me know how the video is helpful!

Visit me on our website to view my bio!