cousin fun

We had lots of family visiting over the last few weeks, and unfortunately I just haven't been in the photo mood -- so I haven't taken many photos.  However, here are 2 that I thought were super cute of Joshy, Drew and their cousin Luke from Texas.  :)  (click to enlarge)

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These boys are getting so big! 

play time for mama

So...I admit, I occasionally (ha!) procrastinate and play on the computer instead of accomplishing more important tasks.

I love looking at word art/posters/quotes online, and finally decided to make a few of my own that I will frame and hang in my stairway so my kids (and Brad and I) will see them every day.

I can't take 100% of the credit for these because I've seen similar ones like them online and just played around until I came up with a look that I liked...  If you like them too, and are interested in having a copy of your own, let me know!  They are all sized to print out as 8x10s.

Here are my creations:

What do you think?  I promise to post a pic once they are framed and up on the wall!

calendars...

http://pinterest.com/pin/61246909/

As a child/teenager, I dreaded "Family Calendar Sessions" because #1, it took FOREVER! and #2, I have never liked to plan ahead...I like to live spontaneously!

HOWEVER...

Now that I am a parent, I can see the HUGE benefits of having a Family Calendar - especially as my memory gets weaker and weaker! So...

I've been semi-obsessing over getting a good calendaring system in order before baby arrives...and was looking through some old documents/ideas that I've saved over the year. I came across this list from LDS Living from a couple years ago, and after re-reading it, I wondered if maybe some of my friends/family might have some additional tips that they use in their homes? 

Here is the original text from LDS Living:

One of the best ways to organize your family is through the tried-and-true wall calendar. Setting aside some time during a family home evening to determine schedules and responsibilities will help you get your family's act together. Here are some keys to organizing and staying focused on your goal.

1. Each Monday at the beginning of family home evening have each member of your family list the activities in which they will be involved during the week and which activities are coming up that month. Have children look through school assignments, extra-curricular activity schedules, and church activity schedules so that nothing is forgotten.

2. Also list upcoming extended family dinners, ward activities, work trips, family vacations, etc., on your calendar. Don’t forget to block out Monday evenings for family night.

3. Next, create a list of chores and determine how frequently these chores need to be done for your family. Assign each member of the family a week or a day for a specific chore (e.g., Week 1: Jessica empties dishwasher; Week 2: Trevor vacuums on Tuesday and dusts on Thursday). List each family member’s household responsibilities on your calendar.

4. Place your family calendar in a central location where everyone will be able to have easy access to it. Encourage your children to check the calendar often to be reminded of what is on the roster and to update it when necessary.

5. Learn to just say no when activities start mounting up. Creating a family schedule will help you manage your time, but if you simply don’t have the time, learn that sometimes “no” must be the answer.

6. Consider blocking out specific days for each family member during the month. This is a special day to do something fun with Mom and/or Dad.


So I ask you, what kind of calendar system works for you?  Any tips or tricks you can offer would be greatly appreciated!  Do you use a computer calendar (like google calendar) or perhaps a calender app in your phone?