Imagine for a moment 20 people of various ages who have been asked to sit still for 10 minutes with their empty hands on their knees. They are not allowed to speak or interact with anyone. The participants can’t leave their seat or get anything out of their pockets. They just need to sit.… Can […]
Flashes from the Past
Make a tradition of having a “Flashes from the Past” night once a month at your house…and watch it bring family unity. The evening focuses on family…your immediate family history and/or the history of those who have gone before. You can choose from these ideas or come up with your own: 1) Pull out […]
Island Paradise – Family Fun Activity
Does your family need an escape from the real world? How about visit an island? A little pretending will revive and renew the smiles at home… Go to a pretend island paradise for dinner. Decorate your kitchen/table with whatever “islandish” stuff you have around. ..leis, shells, bright colored paper, etc. We did splurge and buy […]
I am a “Home Maker” –A Message for Parents
Not long ago I had to fill out some paper work at a bank. The next day the lady at the bank called because there was one more paper to sign. I went in and she had filled out all the information for me on the form. I just had to sign the paper. I […]
Evening in England
“May I have an ice lolly?” “Shall we take the lift or the stairs?” “Run along and find your blue trousers, lad.” Taking a pretend trip to England for the evening may be just what your family needs to brighten eyes and put smiles on faces. You can make it as simple as watching an […]
Family Bonding Time – Read, Watch, Enjoy!
“They left the best part out!” “Annabeth is supposed to be blond!” “I like the book much better. They ruined the movie.” Over the years comparing books with movies has been a fun point of discussion and bonding for our family. We have enjoyed reading illustrated classics and other great books followed by watching the […]
Creating a Written History for your Deceased Grandparents
Creating a Written History Do you wish your children could get to know your grandparents? Not just their birth and death dates and locations, but really get a feel for who they were. Here is a simple way to create a cherished history that helps you see beyond the dates. Message or email your living […]
Family Reading Goal
Why not build family unity and help kids excel in reading at the same time? We love to have a family reading goal…mostly because there is a potential for ice cream….but the other rewards are really greater. (It is OK that my kids don’t realize that yet. :)) The process is simple: set a reasonable […]
Family Service Activity
If life is getting too busy and everyone needs to be pulled back together for some family time…try this service activity: Gather your kids and decide who around you could use a secret service…a plate of cookies, a note, or a small gift. Tell them they will become the SWaT team tonight. (SWaT—Service Without a […]
Books at Bedtime
“Please, one more chapter, Dad!” “Not tonight, you need to go to bed.” “We will be nice tomorrow, if you read one more!” “Sorry, we will read more tomorrow night.” “I hate it when you do that. You always stop at the best part.” “Good night. Love you,” I say with a smile. Often the […]