Everyday HOPE

The blessings of one sink

My children share a bathroom. The fact that they have a bathroom and we have a separate bathroom is something of a treat for us...We moved from a little farmhouse that had only one full bathroom, which was tiny. So tiny, in fact, that when I was pregnant, my husband and I couldn't both be in the bathroom at the same time!

A couple of years ago, we were able to do some much-needed remodeling of the kids' bathroom. When we moved in, there were two sinks in this bathroom. We opted to increase the counter space and save a bit of money by putting only one sink in during the remodel. Since we have a boy and and a girl, they are not often in there at the same time, so it seemed the most practical solution.

I didn't realize some of the hidden benefits of only one sink when we made that decision. Certainly, it saves some time and hassle on bathroom-cleaning day. The larger countertop looks nice, and gives me a place to put a few cute knick-knacks at Christmas time.

The biggest blessing, though, became apparent tonight. My son called me into his room to tell me that his sister's sink habits were becoming a problem. He shared serveral complaints. The biggest problem? "There is so much hair in the sink, Mom!" When he was finished, I told him that I understood his frustration and that I would certainly follow up on some of his concerns. About the hair, though..."Have you talked with your sister about that," I asked. "Noooooo," came the sheepish response. 

So, we chatted about ways to approach his sister about yucky hair in the sink. It's good practice for dealing with a college roommate's loud music, or a problem with a co-worker or a boss.  It was a teachable moment.

Thank goodness for only one sink.

We have a WINNER!

Congratulations to MARIA...winner of a $10 gift certificate to Dinners by the Dozen!!
ENJOY!!

LUXURY~ and a treat for YOU!

Sometimes the fast pace life...from housework to homework to carpooling to deadlines just plain gets to me, and I crave a little bit of luxury...some peace and quiet. A chance to get away from it all. Any parent can relate to this, especially if you're coping with your child's special needs.

I read an article recently that talked about the effect of stress on the body. The researchers were measuring the relationship between stress and inflammation. Can you guess the group of people  being studied? Moms of kids with chronic disabilities!

I find that a little luxury can go a long way in helping my stress level. Please understand... it doesn't remove the stressors from my life. But a bit of luxury can certainly make me feel refreshed.

I think luxury comes in many forms. For me, the simplest luxuries are the best! Yesterday, my mom sent her cleaning lady to my house. My WHOLE HOUSE was clean! That's a wonderful feeling. Today, my kids and I are enjoying a day off. They're still in their jammies, and we've all had yummy lunches and a chance to chat and read the comics together. That's a luxury to me, too...uninterrupted down time.

We'd like to throw a little luxury your way, and help you simplify your life a bit. Cooking dinner can be a hassle, especially when you have hungry kids asking, "Moooooom! What's for dinner?!?!?!?!" I've been going to a great little shop called Dinners by the Dozen.  In the span of two hours, you make 12 great dinners, which you then take home and put in your freezer. No grocery shopping, no dirty dishes, no chopping or prep work. It's easy, fast and FUN! Rather like spending time cooking with a good friend.

Carolyn Ritchie, the owner of Dinners by the Dozen, is offering a special discount to HOPE clients and friends. For the next three months (March, April, and May), you can receive $1 off per meal, or 50 cents off per half-meal that you make at Dinners by the Dozen. Simply call or email Carolyn and mention that you read about her on the HOPE blog, and she'll explain how to place your order.

But wait! That's not all, folks! If you leave me a comment here on the HOPEful blog that tells me your idea of luxury, I'll put your name in a drawing for $10 off your next visit to Dinners by the Dozen, compliments of HOPE. The drawing will be on Wednesday, February 20, and I'll announce the winner here.

To reach Dinners by the Dozen, visit the website at www.dinnersbythedozen.com. You can email Carolyn at info@dinnersbythedozen.com or call her at 330-995-6512.

Please note: HOPE doesn't receive any additional discounts from Dinners by the Dozen...I just think this is such a great thing, so I'm happy to promote it. I can't wait for you to enjoy this luxury!

One word

Gracious! It's  been a long time since I last posted. I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season.

I love January. For me, it's a time for reflection after a busy holiday season. This year, it's also been a time for rebuilding and refreshing. We've just completed painting our back hall and freshening up a bathroom. It's amazing how just a can of paint and a new curtain from Wal-Mart can make me feel like I have a whole new house!

We have a tradition of setting goals as a family for the new year. This year, we have put a different spin on things...we each have chosen ONE WORD to set the tone for our year. I got this idea from a blog I've been following: www.aliedwards.typepad.com (This incredibly creative graphic designer is also the mom of a very special boy...check out her blog for great ideas and great perspective! )

So...my word is BALANCE

It's a really necessary word for me. I tend to get very intense about things. Projects. Work. Planning. Writing.  I need a little balance to restore a sense of creativity and peace. So...that's my word. Stay tuned for reports on my progress!

What's your word for the year??

Angel Investors

A few years ago, when Suzanne and I were starting up our business, we learned about "angel investors." A colleague told us that this might be a good way to find start-up funds. I wasn't sure exactly what this meant, so I asked my brother-in-law, an entrepreneur. He explained that angel investors are folks who invest in a company without expecting to get a return; they often want to help a fledgling company to get on its feet. They're investing in the community.

As I reflect on the past five years, I realize that we have had so many angel investors supporting what we do...The Turben Family Foundation has generously supported us with their financial gifts, as well as their support. This allowed us to get up and running quickly and efficiently, and it enabled us to reach out quickly to families who needed our support.

We've had other angel investors, too, who have invested their time and talent. One morning, Suzanne and I had an important start-up meeting with community leaders. This had been on the docket for weeks, and we were incredibly excited...and completely terrified! And then... my daughter came down with strep throat. My friend, Julie, came over at the crack of dawn to babysit for her so that I could still attend the meeting.  Our husbands have given us excellent business advice (and have tolerated our increasingly large cell phone bills, as well as our sometimes-long work days!) Friends from our church have prayed for us. Administrators and teachers we respect have offered information and guidance. Doctors and therapists from the community have  referred families to us because they believe in what we're doing.

And we're thankful.

So, this all got me thinking about parenting...we all need "angel investors" in our parenting, too.  The older, wiser neighbor who has been through it all with her kids, and is willing to encourage you. The youth leader who nurtures a relationship with your teen. The pediatrician who takes time to not only get to know your child...but is willing to understand you, too. The grandparents who tell you you're doing a great job with your kids.

Who are your "angel investors" in parenting? Be sure to thank them!