more than words

Anyone more familiar with the current research is welcomed to correct me but from what I recall it is by age 6 that most of us have our schemas in place. What is a schema you ask? I look at a schema as the rosie or any other colored glasses through which we view the world. I think of schemas as filters through which we sift all information and experiences that come without out sphere of experience. It is how we see the world and ourselves in it. If these are set by the age of 6, take a guess as to who has the most influence over what schemas a child develops.

I believe that one of our human needs is to be loved. Wouldn't it be wonderful if parents could create an inner sense of being loved within their child? I think that would make it easier for said child to experience the world as loving and generate love for others. Feeling a sense of love makes it easier to take risks and do scary things aince there is a sense of security. And love heals.

This post is about words. Yes, actions speak louder than words, as the saying goes, but words do speak. I also think they set the tone in a household and create a foundation on which actions may be interpreted. Well, for me anyway, but I am wordy. :)

So for the past few days I have brainstormed on things I say to my children that create (I hope) a sense and knowledge that they are loved. These are little golden nuggets, short and sweet, easily dropped from my lips as a child runs by, as I pause for a hug, as I bid them good night for the second time, etc. I'd like to know what you golden nuggets of love look like. I am interested in expansion. :)

Here goes:
You are my favorite big girl.
You are my favorite baby.
You are my favorite boy.
Mommy loves you.
I'm glad you came to our family.
I'm glad you're my girl.
Turkey butt.
Of all the Katherines in the world, you are my most favorite.
You are so pretty.
You are so handsome.
Who loves you?
I love you THIS big!
I love you.

a month in review

A few days over due but you will forgive me I am sure. I have been a little busy.

Last month I committed to shopping for groceries with cash. I determined to curb my tendency to buy many of an item when it is on sale if it means going over budget. I made a plan that consisted of creating a menu based on sale items, and filling in those gaps with items purchased at great deals and stored in my pantry.

Well, the cash part did not work out so hotly. I am sure much of this has to do with the fact that I nearly never have cash on me and I am pretty sure I have long forgotten my ATM pin. So, instead I had to exercise more discipline with the credit card after the first time -that trip involved cash.

I did follow my shopping list plan. It was interesting. For instance, some weeks the stores seemed to offer an abundance of good deals and during those times of plenty, my cart was full. Then there was a week where it seemed that nothing I needed was available for a great price. Ugh!! At that time I had to plan more carefully, not buy as much and utilize the basement store. Gotta love the basement store.

Planning a menu based on the current available deals worked fabulously. My mom taught me that trick and it sure paid off.

Hmmm, I guess that will be all for now.


Still, I DID IT! We even had some surplus this month. A-MA-ZING. So there you go.