Review 3: Book Coping With Divorce

     Today I write about my first review I have done on a book.  I took some time to look over some friends blogs who review books and got some tips!  I hope I do them well, their sites will be posted below.






     Several years ago when I was going through my divorce and living in my own home I was given this book to help me though some of the hard times.  The book is called Coping with Divorce, by Jim Greteman.  Jim is a marriage and divorce counselor for the family services department of the Catholic Charities in Sioux City, Iowa.  He has many years of experience as well as devised a counseling program that has been used in over 350 programs including the Menninger Clinic and U.S Army and Navy Departments.  This book dates back to the early 1980's but one of the things I love about it is how simple it is.  The author explains that the book is simple and appeal to the child in us and is to the point.  It doesn't ask of us for much and after several months he advises to look it over again because you most likely react differently to its contents and help with the healing process.

     The book starts off by explaining in a simple term what a divorce is and how its like a death of a relationship.  It continues to explain how our moods are very fragile and one second you can be laughing the next crying. Why I like this book is because the book is smaller and not your typical book.  There is only a few sentences per page with pictures so you don't feel you are reading a dry novel. It talks about hope, forgiveness and how to start moving on.  The book isn't a religious book to make you feel pressured but it expresses in finding religion or staying with your religion is very helpful and I agree.  Having my faith through my divorce is what helped the most.



    The book has a great frame of starting, getting you to understand your self better then closing with the encouragement of moving forward.  What I love also is in the back he gives helpful organizations you can reach out to.  You can read it in one sitting and keep it for when you grow and are stronger.

     You can purchase the book on Amazon. Here is the Link.  When I think about books for self help I feel simple is better.  I feel a long dry book will only keep you from wanting to keep reading.  When going through a divorce you mood can be different at anytime and sometimes it is hard to even take advise.  I didn't look at this book for a few years.  I put it away because honestly I didn't want to see it.  I know as hard as that sounds it just takes time.  However I really liked this book and think it is a wonderful contribution to a very hard time in ones life. 



    Besides books always remember to lean on family, friends and faith during this time...

I wanted to post two of my friends sites that do many reviews on books. 
Check out their sites!

lavenderinspiration By Nikki

myrainydayreads By Alisha

Look for more reviews to come! 

Always remember,
You are never alone...

Love,
Christopher

      

Spring has Sprung!

     I picked up Quinn today and since it was nice out we took some time to go to the park to play!  It was nice the weather finally broke and that I think Spring is finally here!  We went on the swings, down the slide and ran around a bit before we got some dinner and headed home.  It was nice to see the grass and trees getting greener.

     I try to get Quinn to a playground or outside to run around because exercise is so important!  As it gets warmer its time to enjoy being outside, get some sun and fresh air!  After we got home we had some dinner and relaxed before bed.  We did our reading and then off to bed!  It is harder this time for Quinn to sleep because her room is lighter but after tucking her in a few times she was out like a light!  Kayla had to work tonight so for a few hours it was just Quinn and I.  With the weekend right around the corner I can't wait to have some fun and start our adventures with our Quinn.

     Enjoy the pics!

The park is open!

Starting of on the swings.

She is cute!

Going down the slide!

I hope everyone has a great spring to come!

Always remember,

You are never alone...

Love,

Christopher 

Tuesday's Tip: Helping Pass the Time...

     I have talked about this before and when it comes to being a single parent there are days between seeing your kids.  I talk about this now because it wasn't my weekend with Quinn last weekend so I haven't seen her in a week.  The next time I will see her will be tomorrow.  I have some tips that will help for other single parents while your child with the other parent.  This can be a difficult time and can make you almost go crazy if you don't manage your time well.  Not being around your child is hard and you need to keep it together.  Here are some tips that will help!



  

     1)  Know there will be time you won't see your child and prepare for it by mentally getting ready.
    
     2)  Take time to plan things when your child is away.  Make a to do list, thinks you can get done like working on your home or pampering your self!

     3)  Don't get stuck feeling sad or wondering how they are.  Let them enjoy their time with their other parent.  You can call to say hello and check in.  I do from time to time. 

     4)  Make sure you plan good events when they do come!  Make sure you take time to get ideas and adventures ready.  Plan for your time with them!

     5)  Meet friends and family out.  Have them over for dinner or go out and spend time with loved ones!  The weekends can be hard or anytime you have off from work so spend time with loved ones.

     6)  Join a club, go to the gym or things like this.  Working out can be a great motivator and you can relieve stress.

     The time you don't have your child is difficult but over time you will adapt.  In the beginning be strong and find ways to keep busy.  As time goes on your child will grow and then have more independence.  They will also want to spend more time with you so always choose your battles wisely and remember just slow them love when you have them!  The rest will come...

Always remember,
You are never alone...

Love,
Christopher

The 2015 Klondike

     So getting back to some older post I have yet to do.  This past February was out annual Scout Klondike!  One of the post I do like to share this event I have been working for a very long time.  I know this post is old but with a busy winter I wanted to catch up.  Every year we head out to a park by our area and help run events and get the troops set.  For over a decade I have been working the snowball toss and have seen many kids come and go.  An event I am known for I must add.

     Like before this year we did a tribute to the Veteran.  We had many Vets come and talk to the scouts as well as we gave them a nice opening ceremony.  When we break we all go to our stations and the Vets walked around and just talked to some of the troops and kids.  Explaining what it means and what people gave for our country and this world.  My Dad is a Vet and this has always been something he loves and supports.  I always feel we should support our troops and Vets.  Sometimes it isn't fair the politicians that's start wars or send them in but they go because there are people in the world that need to be protected.  It is sad that there will always probably be war in our lifetime.  However there will always be people that will fight to keep this world a better place. 

     As the day went on we hosted our events and just got to talk to the troops and kids.  There was a great turnout and the day was busy.  The weather gave us a break and wasn't to cold with the sun out a little to help as well.  As the day progressed we stopped and had some lunch.  Just some time to relax and have the staff talk.  After we finished up the day and had the great sled race and awards!  The great sled race consisted of the troops lining up and racing down the main field!  they have to all turn at the end and come back.  It is something to watch I tell ya.  After I gave the awards for fastest pitch.  Ironically this year it was a set of brothers for the older and younger class. 

     When we were done we did some clean up, Kay even stopped by with Quinn for a visit!  It was a nice surprise.  We even did some sledding!  I didn't get to take her much this year so it was a good break.  She had so much fun and got to go down with a few times.  The Klondike has always been one of my favorite events just the whole day and everything it offers...

Enjoy the pics!!

Always remember,
You are never alone...

Love,
Christopher

Here we are at the opening ceremony.

Our honored Vets!

My dad talked about what the Vet Means.

Here I am!  I didn't even get a table this year! Budget cuts!

My Dad and I.

Here is our annual pic of my brother Dad and I.

The Vets being honored.

Quinn and I

Kay, Quinn and I

Popi and Quinn

The great race!

Kayla and Quinn

Flag retirement was one of the activities, retiring a flag in honor.

A mid week break!

It's Grilling Time!!

     We did some grilling this past weekend and then again tonight we did some classic hots and burgers!  It did get a little colder today but nothing stops opening grilling weekend!  So i hope everyone gets their grills out and get out there and grill!

Happy Cooking!

Always Remember,

You are never alone,

Love,

Christopher 

Tuesday's Tip: Getting ready for the day.

     I found being a single dad one of my obstacles with my daughter is getting ready.  Usually when I have her during the week we have to move faster because school however sometimes on the weekends it takes a little more to get up and ready for the day.  So I have some tips for all my parents out there and if you have your own please submit a comment and help us out!

1)  I always try to tell my daughter what is going on the night before especially on a weekend so she knows the game plan.  I also make sure she says, she understands so when the day comes were not playing the "I didn't know card"  If kids know before hand they will more than likely work with you!

2)  Don't get them dressed!  Once they are getting bigger help them less and less but make sure they do it!  This past weekend Quinn asked us to put her socks on.  I said no! You're 6 you can do it!  Remember this about humans, if you will do it for them, we will let you!  (such a bad gene in us)

3)  Try not to reward them for getting dressed.  You have to!  They just need to do it, you can't get a  treat for just getting ready! No Dice Parents!

4) Remind them they are getting older and they have to start doing things on their own too!

5)  If you are going someplace fun and they know it but remain giving you a hard time, just tell them.  "We don't leave till your ready".  This will usually move them.

6)  Don't spend to much time arguing.  If they really put up a fight let them cool down and have them take a time.  However don't give them movies, TV or toys.    

7)  Also remember the spring time is harder because we just came off a long winter.  Usually we spend more time in doors because the snow and cold so now we just need a jump start to make us remember its warm out!  This applies to us parents too!

8)  Try the Take five below! 
Get dressed
Make your bed
Eat breakfast
Brush your teeth
Comb your hair



I hope these few tips helped out!  It is a learning process everyone...

Always remember,
You are never alone...

Love,
Christopher

Liebster Award

Liebster Award
 
     I am so honored and excited to have been nominated for the Liebster Award by my friend and fellow blogger Nikki.  Nikki's blog, Lavender Inspiration is a blog to save in your favorites.  Her blog post range from parenting, life changes and her amazing reviews!  Take some time to check her site out!  Thank you again for the nomination I am very honored!

     If your not aware of the Liebster Award, it is a recognition that is given to bloggers by other bloggers.  I have posted answers to the questions that Nikki gave, as well as my nominations!

 

 

Where does your blogging inspiration come from?

 

It really comes from a few things.  My Daughter is one, also the joy of just helping other parents and single parents who are going thought difficult times. 

 

Is your blog a hobby?  What kind of dreams do you have for it?

 

It started off as one, I just wrote down what my daughter and I did with some pictures.  Then I got more into helping others.  I have written almost everyday but have cut back to just when I have things to share.  Honestly for the future I would just like to help out parents and share ideas.  Yes I would love to be larger like some super blogs but I have had strangers tell me how much my blog as helped them and honestly that's all I asked for.  So I am happy.

 

What is your support system like and how are your biggest supporters?

 

My family and friends are my biggest supports how every meeting new bloggers have been such a strong support system because family and friends are always there for you. Haha, but reaching out to people you may not know and sharing post and ideas is what makes you stronger as a writer.  Thank you all! 

 

What are 10 random facts about you?

 

I'm a sucker for romantic movies.

 

I am the biggest Kevin Costner fan.

 

I would like a Tattoo but would never get one.

 

A dream would be a motivational speaker.

 

I still pay video games, and never will stop.

 

I am working on making peace with the anger I had from my divorce.

 

I love Halloween but hate costume parties.

 

I'll take a cold beer on hot day...

 

I always wanted to be in a band, but am musically challenged.

 

My camp deck is one of my favorite places in the world.

 

What do you enjoy most about blogging?

 

I love just getting down memories and writing.  What most however is just helping others, I'll never for get the comment from someone I never met saying my blog and post helped him out and that he was a single dad and my blog helped him.

 

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed with to many task at once?

 

I feel one of my strengths has always been bending under pressure but never breaking.  We all have a breaking point yes but I feel I just buck up and work harder.  Take what task is more important or hardest and work down. 

 

What would you do with a large sum of money given to you?

 

Make sure my family, friends and church were taken care of then work down debt and finally go on a vacation.  I would make sure my future was safe but also donate a lot back to the community.  I've never been wealthy so I wouldn't fit the part.

 

What was one of the most moving books or movies you have ever read or seen? 

 

Schindler's List

 

Where would you like to see yourself in the next couple of years?

 

With Kayla, Quinn and my family and friends.  Just living life and enjoying it...

 

Do you have a Bucket List?  Name 5 things on it.

 

I kind of do. 

 

Meet Kevin Costner: Not done yet.

 

See Garth Brooks in concert: Done and got front row and got to shake his hands!

 

See They Might be Giants in Concert (favorite band): Done and got to be front row and touch their guitar.

 

Visit Alaska: Not Done

 

What is your single best piece of advise for someone starting out in the blogging world?

 

Blog because you want to, not because you feel you need to.  Make sure you stick with it and search out fellow bloggers, we are nice people!

 

 

My 5 nominations are as follow in no particular order along with a brief explanation of their blogs by either them or me. Check them out!

 

Daddies Love their Daughters by  David.  A blog with illustrations on every day life as a dad. A great read.

 

Sleeping should be easy by Nina.  Does this sound familiar: You have no idea what you’re doing with this whole parenting business, you doubt yourself a lot, especially when you hear conflicting advice or admonitions from others around you, and you’re starting to get scared your kids will fall short compared to their peers.

 

The Jenny Evolution by Jennifer.  The Jenny Evolution began as a way to share my difficult experience parenting a high-needs kid, but it quickly expanded beyond my own personal evolution into a full-blown Mom Evolution. The Jenny Evolution is about evolving as a parent and as a person.

 

Select Academic Consulting by Kati:  Select Academic Consulting, LLC is a full-service college advising agency dedicated to the success of its young clients.  We are Ivy-league educated, research based, and fairly priced.  Located in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, we meet with clients locally, and are also available for electronic consults to clients across the nation.  Visit our website and see if we can help make your child's college dreams a reality.

TSotD (The Song of the Day)  By Unanimous.  This site is done by a very close and dear friend of mine.  They prefer to be left unknown so for their privacy I won't give their name.  They put a new song up every day for their readers to enjoy along with holidays, mixes and other features.  TSotD has been around for a long time and is a site/blog but the work put in is amazing.  The music is different daily and is a great way to start your day.  I think every morning should start with a new song. 

As a side note Alisha Nominated Nikki, who then Nominated me.  Check out Alisha's blog My Rainy Day Reads. 

I hope you enjoyed this post and to all I have Nominated you deserve it!  

 

 

 

 

Attention Nominees: Here are the instructions as they were given to me:

"Nominees it is your turn to answer the questions and award some blogs if you are willing. Answer the above questions in your own blog post and then nominate some of your favorite blogs that have fewer than 200 followers (it can be whatever kind of follower you like - I used blog followers). You can either make up a new list of questions for your nominees or just use the ones I used. Leave a comment on your nominee's blog so that they know that they were nominated! Include a link back to your post so that they know what to do. Participating in awards like this is a great way to build your community in the blog atmosphere and connect with other bloggers."

 

 

I hope everyone gets to see some new blogs and share theirs as well!

 

 

Always remember,

You are never alone...

 

Love,

Christopher

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



A weekend update!

     This past weekend came and went again!  Friday was so busy we picked up Quinn and headed to one of her classmates birthday party!  We were so excited because it was at a jump club here and Quinn and I have been before.  The building is large and just filled with inflated slides and climbing mazes.  We got setup and she ran right in sliding around, jumping and getting great exercise.  The kids played for about an hour and it was nice to see some of her classmates we knew.  A few months ago Kay and I had lunch at Quinn's school.  We got to meet a lot of her friends so friday we got to see them again.

     As the kids played I just let Quinn enjoy her time as a kid.  Watching her jump climb and just be a kid.  After the kids played we went up to a party room for some dinner and presents!  The kids all ate pizza and had cake classic kid dinner.  Her friend opened his presents and then they went to play a little more.  It was very nice to meet some of the parents in her class and just again watch her be a kid.  That night we just went home and called it a night after it was late and we had a big weekend!

I will fill you in more this week but for now I just wanted to post because how much fun she had.
Enjoy the pics!

Always remember,
You are never alone...

Love,
Christopher

   

Here is everyone!

Getting ready for dinner!

The birthday boy 

Cleaning up and getting back to jumping around!  I didn't get any of Quinn jumping because I couldn't follow her that fast!  She

A Movie To Remember...

     A day after Furious Seven opened Kayla and I went to see it.  For me it was like many others a closing of a journey.  I wanted to post a little about the movie and series because it was one of my favorites.  There are some spoilers if you have never seen any however I didn't go much in detail. 

     When the first movie came out in 2000 it was a new kind of thrill.  This was the movie that started it all.  A racing underground movie that made kids want to invest in their cars and the time of tricking them out was really at it's max.  It was like the first of its kind even thought racing movies have been our for as long as we can remember.  This was different we were fans of the bad guy.  He had a sense of family and loyalty.  An underground side we all wanted to live in.  I think after this movie came out so many parts for cars were sold the market went up.  I don't think they could have had a better cast for the parts...

     They did have a short after the first one came out. called The Fast and the Furious Turbo Charged.  Only a few minutes long it shows after Paul's character gives his car to Vin's character what happens.  He is wanted and drives around racing getting money to survive.  The video then winds him up in FL where the second one picks up.  It was interesting to watch and put the missing timeframe together. 
 

  Over the next few years I followed the series as the second one came out and more characters were introduced.  2 Fast 2 Furious had a good story line and they had some major people introduced like the crew of Brian O'Connor.  I wasn't sure where they were going to go with the series honestly and the ending was good but it left questions.  After this another one didn't come out for a while.  The story didn't mention Dom but more focused on the character Brian and what happened after the first movie.
 

     There is actually is one more short called Los Bandoleros.  It shows what Dom and Letty and where they went after the first one.  They headed down south and you actually meet Han, Leo and Santos more of Dom's crew that appear in the later films and wonder who they are!  This short is actually really good because it shows them in the DR and some of the things they did.  Just small pieces to a bigger puzzle...


     Along the road I also followed the actors as they made other movies just because that's what fan's do.  I will admit I wasn't sure what the reason behind Tokyo drift was, it felt so odd and out of place but I guess they knew there would be more before we did.  After they made Fast and Furious the fourth one, we started to ask questions about how some characters were alive when they were killed in other ones.  I was confused as hell.  However at the very end Dom made a small appearance so it made us guessing how he was way over there and what he was doing there.  We didn't know much about Han in this because he shows up in later movies which again is why we were confused.  However I heard Vin did this part for free, just to get the series rolling again.

    The next big movie to hit the series was fast and furious.  To see Paul's and Vin's characters reunited however was something the fans were waiting for.  This brotherhood and bond that was weaved with trust and even some lies was back together.  There was some great racing scenes and Dom's sister and Paul's character who were together in the first one reunited and showed love for each other again.  I think a romance the fans loved and needed.  Paul and Vin worked together to bring down a drug dealer.  This movie also shows Han and some of Vin's crew, not the crew from the first movie but some he must have met along the way.  You start to now ponder that Tokyo drift happens later in the timeline because Han is alive.   Vin in the end doesn't run but faces his crimes and still gets fined guilty.  However you can tell there will be a next one as the credits role you see clips of what is about to happen...

     When Fast Five came out it was just an explosion.  The Rock was in the cast now, there was a lot of characters all of the crew was there to pull one last job.  This movie in the series got the ball rolling so fast people didn't want to slow down!  They were in Rio and on the run, Vince one of Dom's guys from the very first one was even in it.  It was interesting to see him again and pretty cool they brought him back for this movie.  It was just amazing, with all the crew's joined the movie shows all different talent.  The was action, humor, and love.  Mia played by Jordana Brewster in the movie is pregnant which makes their family bigger.  This was a pretty cool twist but also shows that soon they probably will be slowing down because a family is on the way.  Toward the end the Rock and Vin end up working together which I think everyone wanted.  They both make good hero's and we all wanted to see them fight together.  They end up getting away and the Rock doesn't really seem to care...  The end shows everyone and where they headed off to and how to enjoy their lives with their new treasure and friendship.  Mia who is Dom's sister is expecting and they cut to them on a beach just relaxing.

     After this I thought it could be over, but they surprised us again and made a sixth one!  The Rock seeks out Dom's help and his crew in order to find a villain and reunite them with Letty.  They explain what happens to her in the Fifth one and you believe she was killed however she wasn't.  I feel this one was one of my favorites because they had many of the characters in it. Per the story had to back track per the third movie you kind of new what was coming and one dies which brings sadness.  However with almost all the crew here again I can't help but say this one maybe one of my favorites.  The action scenes were like no other.  They were in London this time and worked with The Rock from the start.  In the end Vin and The Rock have a fight scene with two villains which is pretty awesome.  It's cool to see them fight side by side like they did.  The move ends with all of them getting their freedom and Han loosing Gisele.  It was a sad scene but we knew it was coming per the third installment.  The crew ends up back at Dom's old house cooking out when Hobbs played by the Rock show up with his new partner who had a love interest with Dom till Letty came back.  He gives the crew their freedom and then Dom and Hobbs joke, but you can tell it was pretty cool they trusted each other coming from their backgrounds of law and outlaw...


    After this they started making Furious Seven.  The fans were so pumped it was out of control.  We weren't sure what was going to happen but we knew they would tie up loose ends.  Then in the November of 2013 the world tragically lost Paul Walker.  The cast, crew and fans responded with love and just support.  Personally it was hard for me because I was a fan of his work and how he had a good moral compass.  He did so much for the world and a year after he passed I wrote a post dedicated to him and what he did.  To view: Click Here   After time they decided to finish the movie and with the love and support of Paul's family they did.  I can't imagine how hard it was for the family, friends and cast who knew him so well.  We went and saw the movie and it was so good.  The action again was just on a new level.  I think it was hard because I knew Paul only filmed most of the movie and knew as I was watching there would be a part when it was his brothers playing him so a sadness came over me but the love was there for him and the movie.
     There wasn't to much one on one racing like the others had but a lot of combat and the Rock had a smaller roll this time only being in the beginning and end of the film.  The movie did a great job wrapping up questions like Han.  After he dies in the film Dom goes over to Tokyo to bring him back to be buried and he talks to he lead actor from Tokyo drift.  Lucas who plays Sean in the film.  Pretty much right at the end of the 3rd one the 7th one picks up.  They race then talk about Han a little, it was sad because you fall in love with all the characters and Han was a good one.  Never knew why they had to end his character.  Dom brings him back and the movie continues.  The crew is being hunted by the brother of the last villain, he is played by Jason Statham he played a great role as his part and the fight scene with him and Vin Diesel in the end was excellent.  I always liked a few things, I liked how they always focused on family and loyalty.  Shows a code in this world we sometimes forget.  I also like how every title was different however they would use different pars of each for that title. 
     In the end the movie did a great job of just wrapping it all up, Brian had his family and Mia was pregnant again.  They are on a beach when Dom leaves, as he's leaving Brian pulls next to him telling him he wasn't going to leave without saying goodbye.  They then show clips from each movie and they drive off eventually splitting apart and taking separate roads.  Vin narrates and you can tell he is saying goodbye because Paul moved on in real life from this world.  I don't think may people had a dry eye and even my self.  It was hard to hold back tears.  Over 15 years of a series you fall in love with the story and people.  I am so happy they did such a good job on the ending, it had class, love and dedication.  It was by far one of my top most loved series.


The Fast and the Furious-2001
The Fast and the Furious Turbo Charged-Short-2003
2 Fast 2 Furious-2003
Fast and Furious Los Bandoleros-Short 2003
The fast and the Furious Tokyo Drift-2006
Fast and Furious-2009
Fast Five-2011
Fast and Furious 6-2013
Furious 7-2015

     Will they make more?  Well I honestly don't know they did such an amazing job ending that part of you wants the series to rest.  Sometimes more is less and what they did was perfect.  Honestly it just wouldn't be the same.  I know there was one without Vin and maybe if they did one with just Vin and not Paul it would work but honestly its to emotional to think about.  For now I thank the series for everything it has done  and everything all the actors and cast has given us over the years.  The thrill to race, be different and break some rules.  I continue to Pray for Paul Walker and his friends and family knowing even though we may not know everyone on this planet always remember we to help others out and know were family even if were strangers...  Below is the video for Furious Seven and a great wrap of the series take some time to watch it.   I honestly will continue to post about the series and the actors including Paul.  It will always be one of those heart breaking series to watch but one day we will all be reunited, until then we have to be kind to each other and treat everyone. Like Family...

    

You will be forever missed but always in our thoughts and prayers...

The Fast and the Furious.

Always remember,

You are never alone...

Love,

Christopher 



Tuesday's Tip: Preparing for the warmer Weather!

     So I have posted it is getting warmer out and with this we all have to come out of hiding and get ready for the warm weather!  As Spring approaches the weather will feel better however we do need to adapt.  Being in such a cold state even 50 degree's will feel like  heat wave!  Make sure you do some of the following steps to get ready for spring, some are home based some are with you kids all are good!


1)  start to get spring cleaning done, open some window's take some time to just start prepping.  The earlier you get the house cleaned inside and out the sooner you can BBQ!

2)  Make sure to check the weather reports.  One nice day doesn't mean winter is over!  It usually won't go down without a fight!  Don't open all your windows and leave them open to wake up with snow on your bed!  Keep an eye on what the weather will do.

3)  Start getting some ideas on what projects you want to do.  Painting, looking at the siding or roof.  Anything you want done, and anything you need done.  Make a list.

4)  Start to get outside with your kids!  Go to parks take walks.  I know April is rainy but on nice days get out and enjoy the day!

5)  Find new area's and places to explore!  Look for new trails, parks, and places to visit.  Most are cheap and will get you moving!

6)  Look at doing a closet clean out.  You kids may need summer cloths soon and you as well!  Make sure your ready to be dressed for summer!  Nobody wants to go down a slide in a snowsuit! 

7)  Within cleaning make sure you turn your De-humidifier on.  This will keep your basement dry and get it summer ready!  Make sure it works and that it is setup correctly.

8)  You can leave your furnace on for a little while longer, we may get cool mornings so until it stays warm I would be safe.

9)  Think warm!  Start looking at getting a fire pit, or new BBQ!  Get your BBQ set ready and cleaned off.  Make sure you have everything to go for those cookouts! 

10)  Most important!  GET OUTSIDE!


I hope these tips helped if you have any let me know!

Always remember,
You are never alone...

Love,
Christopher

The Weather Breaks!

     So unless you live under a rock, or in South you finally noticed it is warming up!  This past winter was one of the coldest we had, I was running out of ideas for things to do!  There are only so many snow days!  So with the weather getting nicer we spend a lot of time outside this weekend getting the house ready for Spring.  With our weekend coming up to have Quinn I am very excited to get back to some parks and running around. 

    I hope everyone has had a good winter and is ready for Spring!  I will have some good tips for you all too!  Start to get your home ready by getting a head on that Spring cleaning!  It is also nice to finally drive with the windows down!  I think with spring coming everyone will have a good turn around.  I know I can't wait to cook out side and just have some fun in the sun!   I am updating the back ground of the blog too! 

    So with this post I hope the weather will finally break and this will be the start of our warmer seasons!  I can't wait to get some older pics up and catch you all up on some of our activities we did!

Always remember,
You are never alone...

Love,
Christopher

First Lost Tooth!

     I got an email from Quinns Mom today saying she had her dentist apt and she did great!  She then lost a tooth to!  Quinn lost her first tooth!  She put it under her pillow and got some money she told me. I was so proud she did so well and she gave me a big smile!

     What a time in your life when your baby teeth start falling out.  I can remember when i started loosing mine.  I remember when I would start to loose mine and how nervous i would be because I had to twist the tooth and then pull and all that ugh...  I am so proud of her she still has many to go!  For now its a great start!

Here is the pic!

Always remember,

You are Never alone...

Love,
Christopher

Tuesday's Tip: Catching up on lost time...

     So after the long vacation break my daughter had one can be upset about not seeing their child or they can just spend every minute with them enjoying their time!  My tip is choice two!  When your child spends time away with their other parent or family don't get upset rater than embrace what they did and ask them how their time was!  Don't take out your frustration on them.  I spent the day with Quinn just relaxing and having fun.  We ate, enjoyed Easter and then watched a little TV to rest after her long trip. 

     A child will know if you are struggling or upset so don't show this.  Here are some tips to help, feel free to add your own!

1)  Always remember what's good for your child is really best.  If they are on vacation then let them have fun and show your excitement!  When they get back make sure you catch up with them and talk about it.  Don't be angry you didn't get to see them.  You can be sad you missed them but don't show it.  Anger and Sadness will confuse a child and only make them feel bad they left.

2)  Spend time with them.  When they get back pay extra attention and do things you both enjoy.  You can also just rest to, kids just like being around their parents and even laying on the couch is setting a good base.

3)  Ask how their vacation went and see pictures if they have any!  Show interest and be happy for them!

4)  Plan your own vacation with them some other time!  Let them spend extra time with you so they know you want to vacation with them!

5) Last but not least just enjoy your time and always show you are excited you have them back!  You can say you missed them.  Also call during their vacation and check in.  Ask how things are going and show you want to say hi, they will love it!

There are many other things one can do however these helped me and continue to! 

Always remember,
You are never alone...

Love,
Christopher

Happy Easter!

  I hope everyone had a great weekend and a very good Easter!  Quinn came home from her vacation so today I picked her up!  I was so excited to see her it has been to long!  We all went to church then home to have her look for her basket!  After she found it and some eggs we took a photo and then got ready for family was coming over.

     The family stopped over for a bit and enjoyed some snacks and conversation, my aunt and mom both got Quinn some special things and treats.  Kayla's mom did as well so she was well taken care of! We all just sat and talked and enjoyed our company.  I only had Quinn till 6 so the rest of the afternoon we just laid low and hung out.  We watched some TV, cuddled and just relaxed.  We did pay some games before everyone had to leave however.  A family tradition of Scotch not the drink!  It involved knocking the butts and tops of hard boiled eggs and seeing what one will not break.  A game we have been playing for many years...

     The day was fun and always, we remember why we celebrate Easter.  This holy week reminds me that what we do is to help others.  That Easter maybe a Christian holiday we all need to believe in just a good being.  Helping, loving and caring for each other...  The world will not survive if we keep destroying it and each other.  I hope everyone had a great day and remember Spring is on its way!

Enjoy the pics!

Always remember,
You are Never alone...


Love,
Christopher

Quinn looking got he basket!

Here we are!

Conversation and snacks!

Playing some games...

Quinn and Kay!

Here we are!

Quinn and her proud Grandparents!