Speed Bump

Isn't the snow lovely? Isn't it great when the kids and the dog can all run around outside in this Winter wonderland? There's hot chocolate to be had and a warm fire to cuddle near...love it. Except when I'm completely over Winter and its bitter cold. Winter - you've worn out your welcome. The reality this year was that it was too cold to enjoy the snow. Izzy was outside for exactly 2 minutes when I took this photo. We didn't build forts or snowmen or go sledding.  Charlie did enjoy playing in the snow - and by playing I mean shoveling. He saw our elderly neighbor out shoveling and ran over to help her. She only let him help for a few minutes and paid him $5 for his effort. She should have let him continue, he would have cleared her whole drive. The kid likes a task. In a few years, Ryan won't have to head outside to shovel at all. Do you pay your child to perform a chore that benefits the family? Now that Charlie is 5 we shoul...

They are too young to appreciate two snow days in a row. But they knew something different was going on and the normal routine and rules did not apply. Charlie's idea of playing in the snow involves shoveling. He shoveled our neighbor's driveway for fun.  Snuggling on the couch to watch Sesame Street. One in pjs, the other barely clothed. I love how they sit together on the long couch.     Kara gave the kids a three month gift subscription to Kiwi Crate for Christmas. It was a life saver!  A box comes in the mail each month with instructions for 2-3 art projects for the kids, complete with all needed supplies - even glue and scissors for both kids. I highly recommend trying out Kiwi Crate or gifting it to a friend.  I was Super Crafty Mom thanks to my Kiwi Crate. Perfect for a snow day!  After two days at home we all started climbing the walls. I had played all my cards, made my last craft. My...