Call me the “Screen Time Regulator”. I laugh a bit at this statement as I was not always as intentional at this role in the past. I have a few tips to limiting screen time successfully as well as a funny story that will make any parenting fail you thought you had, not seem quite so bad. Here’ s how to end the screen time battle for good!

Before I go forth on this topic I find myself chuckling to myself as I finally am writing about one of the funniest parenting mishaps I have had to date. Well, this past event wasn’t funny at the time as I may have possibly created some short term trauma for my poor children but looking back it’s definitely worth laughing at! I will get to that story soon.

Do you struggle with the well known SCREEN TIME BATTLE? You know, the one that results in begging, crying and fit throwing for more technology time from your kids. There’s even the battle within the parent to let in so you can just sit in a quiet corner in your home in peace for a few minutes while you eat sugar and zone out! I feel you, I get it and I am far from perfect in parenting but I have found a few things that have worked very well!

You can feel like the “good parent” that limits screen time and the “sane parent” that gives in at the same time. There is a secret to this I am excited to share!

First off, the things I do to encourage free range play and other activities besides technology overuse:

1. Treats and outdoor play. The weather is nice finally and Popsicles and cool treats are fun to eat. We have a pool finally set up, trampoline ready to bounce high energy kids, a rope swing to play on and a hammock to knock siblings off of. “Old school fun” I like to call it. A certain part of the day when the weather is nice I encourage time where their only option is to play outside. Once they get out there with a yummy treat, their creative juices get going and they are busy playing. Long story short, boot them out for a set time….they’ll have so much fun they will forget about he computer game they were whining for.
2. Family exercise. Modeling healthy lifestyle is the best way to encourage your kids to grow up with good self care and value their own health. Often I take my kids on walks or we pack up their scooters and head to a local track where I do bleachers as they scoot and play together on the track. They even sometimes join in the bleacher workout!
3. Require reading time. I have a handmade book holder in my living room that encourages reading. We regularly go to the library and pick out new books together they find intriguing and store them in our book case. Often a book read is a prerequisite for earned screen time.
4. Create art. We make a lot of art at Simple Acres such as this resistance watercolor piece but I often encourage them to then draw a picture describing what the book was about I require them to read. They enjoy this simple task and it reinforces their literacy and ability to understand the content they read in a creative way.
5. Chores. I find kids actually (oddly) enjoy chores. From what I  have observed it gives them a sense of ownership and accomplishment within the family unit AND rewarding hard work with screen time works in our book.

So there are some of my real life alternatives to screen time we use. The biggest and simplest change I have made is allotting time frames and days I allow technology. For me, it has been easier for the majority of the time to restrict computer and video game use to only Friday night and some of Saturday. I at times feel fine in the evening allowing a set amount of time on technology if the above activities have been achieved in their day as well. I also set a timer and forewarn them how much time they are getting so that they know when the alarm goes off they are done. This has been huge for preventing tantrums and meltdowns.

I mentioned a humorous story I was going to share so here it is. There was a time I was able to limit computer and video game time for nearly a year! Can you believe it?

The story goes like this:

It was a busy day full of appointments and errands with three kids in tow. My last appointment was a doctors appointment for ALL three children. A disaster waiting to happen but nonetheless I felt I had my “A Game” on because I was the master “screen time regulator” using technology for good. I had fully charged each child’s tech device and brought it ready for a blissful technology trance as I went through each child’s check up visit. Well, for the most part it was a success. I left the appointment a bit frazzled but at least sane. Ready to get home and relax from a long day of errand running with three little humans. I packed them in the car and off we went.

Success! I felt accomplished in this moment. I had used technology for good and left feeling like SUPER mom…until…

I see iPads flying in the air as I am driving onto the highway. I was confused for a split second as I realized what this Super mom (ha) just did!

Yep, I left the dang devices on the hood of my car to be flown off like hockey pucks and smashed to shreds in front of my kids eyes. The tears and the daily remainders my kids offered of how mommy smashed their prized computers was so sad for a while! We learned to do more of the activities I mentioned above though so in the end it was a positive learning experience.

So yep, this might not be the “best” way to limit screen time but it was the most “successful” and long term solution we had for awhile! So there’s a little nugget to store away in your pocket for when your next mommy fail comes your way. You can feel just a little bit better about yourself and remind yourself of “that one blogger” who threw her kids iPads onto the highway into ongoing traffic! Ha!

In the end, we bought new computers and I do the things I mentioned above and every so often I just let loose on a Friday night and offer NO LIMITS and get a break with glorious sanity and peace with no guilt AT ALL as my kids float in technology heaven!

This week we did the playing, the chores, the reading and the creating and we even had a picnic! I took a night off and cooked up a yummy pizza and we all ate it together “picnic style” ! It really is the simple stuff the makes life matter. The more quality time you find together living life, being present, playing or just enjoying an uninterrupted meal together the better!

So this post is for all the parents entering Summer when the screen time battle can be the toughest! I earned  my patch of “Screen time Regulator” from my challenges and successes!

Red Baron pizza is introducing a Baroness that represents moms just like you! Moms who overcome those daily stories of chaos with their kids while in the end reuniting over a great slice of pizza! Join this fun movement and snag your patch  (there are many humorous ones to choose from) and share your story on Facebook and Twitter with the hashtag #wingmama and tag @simpleacres and @baroness . Three of my readers will earn a free pizza.

So in the end,  a few things that work for you and remember it’s OK to let loose too and bake this pizza for dinner and end the night letting your kids have some screen time while you enjoy a little peace and quiet too. Life is about the beauty of the “mess” not perfection!

Snag this pizza for your next chill night at home with the kids! The crust was so crisp and yummy and if you share your parenting war stories on twitter and tag me @simpleacresblog with the hashtag #wingmama three of my readers will win a coupon for a free pizza!

Cheers to an amazing season of life to come. Dovidenia.

The post How to End the Screen Time Battle for Good appeared first on Simple Acres Blog.

Being a mother is a gift I cannot even describe with words and give justice to my feelings. Life often brings times due to varied opportunities and/or circumstances that allow more quality time with loved ones. I am experiencing such a time currently. As I prepare for back to school time like so many other parents, there is one thing I truly want to do to make my children’s school year that much better! As much as I possibly can, I want to find ways to create smile worthy moments for my kids. Today I am sharing the best ways to encourage your child to do just that!

We can feel as though we fail as parents some days. The busyness of Fall and back to school time brings new stresses and “to-do’s” that can add to the challenges that often get in the way of reaching the goals we hold as parents.

What I have learned through the years is instead of focusing on the “moments of lack” such as the times we lose patience we can choose to focus on the smile worthy moments in our families.

What I believe is even better than focusing on the positive is actually CREATING those positive smile worthy moments with our kids. I have learned through the years if I keep focusing each day on striving to create the positive, with time I WILL become the parent I want to be.

Here are the 10 ways I intend to encourage my kids:

• Start each day reminding your child of one very specific thing about them you love.
• Learn your child’s love language, then make a point to do something special one-on-one weekly to demonstrate this to them. My children all vary in their love needs but one they ALL value is focused quality time.
• Remind your child you believe in them AND their ability to reach goals and aspirations.
• Remind your child it’s ok to make mistakes.
• Help your child set attainable goals they are passionate about.
• Enable your child to reach their set goals by demonstrating in your own life the characteristics needed to persevere, have self discipline and have focus in life.
• Hold your child’s hand literally and figuratively, as needed.
• Never give up on them.
• End your day with them reflecting. Teach them the power of joy through gratitude.
• Offer sweet reminders of your love through notes and creativity.

I created the snack labels that are pictured below. These can be printed here. Just print them out sized at 4 x 6 inches or 5 x 7 inches, fold them in half, place them over snack bags, place two holes in the top and secure with twine.

This is such a simple demonstration of how you can encourage your kids with a loving sweet note they can carry with them. Whether they are running around after school, needing a snack at soccer practice or enjoying a snack break at school they will have a smile brought to their face as they are reminded of your love and special attention to detail.

We filled our snack bags with Goldfish® because its such a simple snack all my kids enjoy!

If your family is a fan of Goldfish® you may also love this fun craft we created, our Up-Cycled Watercolor Fall Tree. 

Their Goldfish® homepage also offers my information and ideas for your family.

Another REALLY FUN thing my kids absolutely fell in love with using Goldfish® was creating our very own Stop Motion video! This offered the opportunity for amazing quality time spent together being creative. My oldest still asks to create more of these!

Check out more fun inspiration at the Goldfish® Youtube channel.

So as you can see there are many ways to encourage your child! From simple statements made to paying attention to details with sweet notes. The options are endless to create the smile worthy moments you with cherish for years to come.

Head over to the Goldfish® Pinterest account for more on back to school ideas, crafts and fun snacks. Here’s to starting the new school year with our kids better than the last! Dovidenia. XO

The post The Best Ways to Encourage Your Child appeared first on Simple Acres Blog.

The season has come for new life and land. The new calves are running in the field in the evenings racing around and playing as though it’s a game of tag. The trees are blooming with the aroma of sweet blossoms and the grass is becoming green. With this season on our farm comes an opportunity to teach the value of nature and hard work. The farm, raising cattle and planting a garden serves as wonderful teachers for my children. Whether you live on a farm or live in a city, gardening is a great activity that teaches the value of self-sufficient living. Have you ever considered a more self-sufficient lifestyle? I can attest that although it takes work it can be rewarding and enjoyable.

Currently we our tilling the land and growing grass on our acreage as a way to fuel our growing herd of cattle. We are getting the soil ready in the garden and planting our first seeds of corn and peas. From the growing of the grass to the garden, all these efforts are being put out ultimately to promote self-sufficient living here at Simple Acres. All the while our children get to watch and interact in these actions of hard work and love.

The value of a simple self-sufficient lifestyle. 

• Hard work is the first value that comes to mind. This is something I still am coming to appreciate when it comes to getting down and dirty on our farm. I will say hard work whether it be the farming we do or even the simple goal of growing a small garden and having chickens teaches appreciation.
• Appreciation for the positive end result when effort is spent toward self sufficiency.
• Resourcefulness teaches children to be creative, value nature and not be wasteful.
• Frugal thinking, encourages more responsibility in the goods and monetary blessings our children will experience in their life.

Not always can our children play an active role in the many duties farming or simple living calls for. This inspired me to share how gardening with my children has helped them value our self-sufficient lifestyle and also feel a part of all the fun.

We chose to partner with Miracle-Gro Gro-ables as a wonderful NEW product that is a fun activity for kids and families that get kids outside and interacting with nature and food! While my “Sweet Cheeks”  is planting 5 acres of grass to feed the cows that ultimately feed US, the kids and I are replicating the same self-sufficient action by planting herbs and vegetables we too will eat and enjoy as a family.

How To Start a Simple Garden with Miracle-Gro Gro-ables

1. The seed pods come completely ready in biodegradable cups that include the plant food to guarantee growth.

2.    Push the seed pod into loosened soil until the top is level with the soil’s surface and water daily.

3. In 1-2 weeks your seed will sprout. Several months after planting, flowers will appear which means produce is close at hand.

I can attest that my kids loved this activity! “Daddy” was literally out on the tractor as they were also doing their own planting and contributing to the family. Gardening these seeds caused an excitement they have talked about daily since and a sense of pride in their hard work. With all honesty friends, EVERY SINGLE one of our seeds planted is sprouting! We labeled our plants with up-cycled and stamped vintage spoons. The tutorial can be found here.

I stand confidently with the Gro-ables Project belief.

There’s a lot to learn from even the smallest plants and the smallest gardening project! (Heck we planted in pots on our porch for start up.) The Gro-ables Project is a movement to share the joy of growing herbs and veggies while giving kids truly hands-on learning experiences.

My kids walked away with hands dirty from hard work and hearts uplifted and encouraged by the excitement of taking part in our self-sufficient lifestyle! I can not wait until we are enjoying our fresh herbs and salad at dinner time and can thank the precious hands of our children for their efforts. The appreciation and reward of their gardening will be priceless. What do your children learn from gardening? I would love to hear. Dovidenia. XO

The post How Gardening Can Teach Children Self-Sufficient Living appeared first on Simple Acres Blog.

When you reflect upon your life what are the things that matter most to you? What adds value and purpose to you?

Life itself is a gift in its entirety and love is the cherry-on-top of it all. With the chaos that modern life can often bring there is a yearning for simplicity that calls me. It is as though a quiet voice is whispering “Be still”. Being present is a piece of the puzzle, but today I want to tell the story of my attempt to slow down and savor this gift called life.

It is so very easy to feel the tug of war of life, expectations, challenges, self imposed commitments, technology and so much more. Life can become a consistent buzz in your ear of busyness, thoughts and stresses.

Do you ever need it all to JUST STOP for a moment?

I do. I have been striving for a simpler, slower, cherished life where the moments I have alone or with my family and loved ones are SAVORED. When I say savored I mean like that bowl of fresh Peach Cobbler that’s altogether perfect in its crispy yet deliciously soft and sweet inside! Can you taste the caramel drizzle yet? Yeah, like THAT savored.

What if I told you the constant buzz can be calmed, that the peace of presence in the moment can be achieved and the quality of life that comes from love and time spent can be unplugged?! Would you believe you could achieve those slow and savored moments in life?

Do you want to slow down and savor your family life?

On my journey to the simple life at Simple Acres I have found there to be some amazing secrets and benefits to a slowing down to take in all the goodness life has to offer. Here are just a few tips I hope may help you on your journey.

10 Ways to Slow Down and Savor Family Life

1. Live in the present. My oldest is in love with “playing flowers” . This is where he puts on his favorite red boots to gather flowers from all over the yard to create something beautiful he can then give to another. That “another” is almost always me! I have learned that we lose the gift of “today” when we focus on the past or future. Today we laugh, smile and celebrate this small task, stage and joy. Ask yourself what stage or special moments this present time is bringing forth in your life and savor it! I take pictures of his bouquets, I smell the sweet fragrances and try ever so hard to press an imprint into my mind of that smile and excitement in the beauty of nature and giving. Even laying a few petals between book pages to save remnants of my “today” have been noble attempts to live in the present.

2. Turn off technology. We take days and weeks off from our technological toys, but even an hour away is wonderful. I encourage my kids to play outside. I want to watch them pretend and be creative. I want to see them building with sticks and dirt. I capture the moments by being present around them and by taking pictures of the moments.

3. Be inclusive in everyday tasks. We can all be busy and torn in different directions but I am trying more and more to be present in the tasks of the farm. My husband and I play a part in each others realm a bit from time to time. My husband plays a part in my blog by getting behind the camera for me while playing “photographer”. We have a long way to go but whether it’s my husband changing water while the little ones play in the feild, we are all out in the garden or the kids join in on paint time while I am creating a custom art piece…we try to be together in the tasks of life.

4. Create fun.  I have grown to love four wheeling thanks to my husband. The kids LOVE joining us on rides in the field and around the farm. The wind in your hair and no present cares is so refreshing to the soul. No matter what it is you and your family enjoy…find that and create fun intentionally and regularly.

5. Avoid agendas. Sometimes, having no plan but being home and present is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. Just sit back, be still and enjoy the senses of your surroundings. I love sunsets in the evening on Simple Acres. It is so open and heavenly, it’s as if ever pore of myself can soak in life, nature and the love of my family. If you must plan, plan for time with NO AGENDAS…it will refresh you and your family! I must mention it is amazing to sit back,with no agenda of course, in the most comfortable boots you have ever worn while doing so.

6. Be present in nature. One of my boys has been my bug catcher since he was old enough to walk. He can spend hours in the field chasing and diving in the field for grasshoppers. Although bugs are not my thing, being surrounded by nature is a must for me. There is something soothing about the colors nature presents, the sounds of the season you are in and the smells that are unique to where you are. Nature challenges the senses in a way I find very encouraging to savoring the present time and the people you are sharing it with. If nature is not on your back doorstep, where could you go to get away and be together with your family?

7. Pretend. This may be silly, but I enjoy creating and pretending with my little ones. In this moment, we are in our own world. We intuitively play and feed off each other. Especially, in the Summer nights we pretend and play together as we conquer imaginary beasts and devise plans to be victorious in our created adventure. If you have a more grown family or just you and your spouse pretend you are camping and camp outside and just enjoy the treasured time together. My littlest is in love with pretending she is a powerful cowgirl as she rides her horsey with her adorable purple leather and stitched boots.

8. Connect. Taking that extra effort to be unplugged and purposefully intent on your loved ones. This is a practice I need growth on. I can attest when I do connect it is rewarding and is the secret ingredient to SAVORING family time. When we take time away from multitasking and our phone screens we can engage and connect in memorable ways. I often schedule time in my week to spend quality one-on-one time with each of my children and husband.

9. Create together. In the Spring and Summer we enjoy planting produce in the garden. It is a great way to create a start to self sufficient living and modeling it with our children. Whether it is a flower bed, garden or just a fun hobby or project creating something with loved ones acts as such a glue to togetherness while teaching values and work ethic.

10. Love. The greatest of all these ways to slow down and savor family life is love. Without love not one of these shared tips matters. Hold your family a little tighter, love with more intention, soak in the moment and live life to the fullest.

Our lifestyle may not be yours and that is ok. I believe we all can use these tips in any walk of life. Durango boots is such an essential for our lifestyle because of what we do as new cattle farmers and country dwellers. I wear my boots almost every day. I have never worn a boot, or shoe for that matter, that is as comfortable and versatile as these boots. This is the honest truth. Besides who doesn’t love a pair of cute boots?!

Whether you live in the country, like to play in the dirt or just want to look awesome in the city…you will love these boots! Let them help you explore, savor and connect in life that much better! Dovidenia. XO

The post 10 Ways to Slow Down and Savor Family Life appeared first on Simple Acres Blog.

The art of being present has been a theme and ongoing focus in my life.

*This post contains affiliate links.

What was so good about me just taking care of life’s “to-dos” with a baby I couldn’t wake up (while my arm is burning holding her)? “Good Momma”…it kept on flooding my mind…in a good way. The gesture alone was sweet. So often us mommas just need to hear this, especially with the exhaustion, busyness and multitasking we experience while attempting to keep all the strings of life attached. Do you ever feel this way?

This statement made me proud. Instead of feeling stressed and overwhelmed at the task of grocery shopping with a sleeping babe, it made me feel accomplished…it made me feel empowered. These two words helped me to reflect on what really makes life rich and what really helps us as humans to offer something genuine to others. These two words helped me to realize that being a “good” ANYTHING really comes down to one main thing for me…BEING PRESENT. Being “good” in that moment wasn’t looking perfect, or having it all together, or having every detail even half figured out….it was being present for my daughter that morning.

The Art of Being Present.

Being present to me is:

• unplugging from technology and the demands of life to plug into the people/person and moment I am in
• being in tune to my senses- being mindful of the smell in the air, the feel of my loved one in my arms, the sounds of my surroundings and the emotions my heart is feeling
• being an instrument of love and experiencing a deeper sense of peace, joy and meaning in life

What would this look like in your life? How could you be more mindful to the present moment?

3 Ways to Live in the Present Simply
1. Quality time. I schedule this weekly with my loved ones. “Dates” is code word for quality time and attention with my kids and husband. Even if it’s an early departure to school to grab a treat together or play at a park or a simple dinner with my “Sweet Cheeks” with glorious alone time grocery shopping together! (I know I am boring but I LOVE IT!)
2. Creativity. Art, crafts, painting, decorating with the kids, scavenger hunts…just using your mind and time in a creative way takes you to a slower paced more focused place in life. I love and reap the benefits of this by creating memories with my loved ones while decreasing stress.
3. Capture the Moment. A novice would be a complement to my photography skills…but I love it! Photography that isn’t connected to social media is even better. I just bought a version of my “old-school” Polaroid camera   I had as a kid. The nostalgia of taking and waiting for the “instant” picture to appear warms my heart. (The kids thought is was SO cool and fun too!) The “imperfection” of the photos in the sense that they could not be edited brought me to happy tears, folks. It just reminded me as I used this fun new “toy” how important it is to be present in life. That the “imperfection” and “unplanned” of life is genuine and good…it is good indeed.

The post The Art of Being Present appeared first on Simple Acres Blog.

I have been a mother now for nearly 7 years and I can attest the most awful thing is when illness hits the home. What is even more challenging is illness with multiple kids and the duration it takes for the virus to go through the family and ultimately leave. The lack of sleep, stress and poor state of feeling can bring a mom to her knees at times! I hope to impart of few thoughts on caring for your kids when sick from an experienced mom of three. Read on for 5 Brilliant Mom Hacks for Sick Kids.

Allow me to digress a bit and explain why I was interested in writing this post and partnering with TempTraq.

First, this nearly entire month has been full of viruses and sickness through our family including 5 urgent care visits, nights of poor sleep and days of crying and fussy kids. This month has been exhausting but I feel at this stage of the game of motherhood for me I have something positive to share.

Secondly, I have experienced an extremely traumatic event in the past in which I found one of my young children at the age of two having a febrile seizure! This was one of the scariest moments in my life. There is nothing like the thought of losing your child and in the moment I experienced that could have happened. See, when kids are young if a virus causes a extreme/abrupt spike in fever it can actually cause a seizure. This was not something I knew about before this event. My child ended up ok and is healthy now.  TempTraq® was intriguing for me to share because I am certain that if I had this product then, quite surely the scenario would have played out differently if not avoided all together possibly. It is my prayer with sharing this product I might be able to prevent and event like what I experienced from happening to an other parent.

5 Mom Hacks for Sick Kids

1. Plan for a mess. Often viruses cause digestive upset in the form of vomiting and diarrhea. If that loveliness isn’t the case usually there is lots of snot and congestion that for my kids also ultimately causes vomiting, especially when young. Save the headache of puke everywhere by laying towels (several of them in layers) where ever it is you rest them. This allows you to peel away each layer of “bedding” if they get sick. Better yet, keep those baby bed mattresses if your child is grown out of a crib! I store these under our bed. They work as perfect “sick beds” for the kids when they are ill. These beds easily can lay on the ground by my bed and mine are also plastic covered mattresses so easy to clean and disinfect. Oh and don’t forget the bowl, just in case.

2. Have sick “tools” handy. I have a basket I put my most needed medications and “mom sick tools” in for quick use. It reduces the stress of not being able to find things when I need them. Get organized before hand is key.

3. Comfort, comfort, comfort. Yup, that is my son wearing his bike helmet in bed. Why, you might ask? Because he has been sick and at that moment it was making him happy. Moral of the story is often there is only so much we can do as moms when our kids are sick. We can offer treatments that relieve symptoms, supplements that can boost immunity, warm baths, cool wash clothes, soothing foods and hydration but we can’t always take the sickness right away. In that time comfort them with love, holding, back rubs…favorite items of theirs. Comforting is something we do have in our control. Although you are tired mama…cherish it and do it. If you feel you are at your limit reach out to another family member to help hold and comfort them if you need a break.

4. Step up your game with technology. We are so blessed these days with the advancements in technology that benefit our daily lives.  TempTraq® is an example of that! TempTraq® is the only wearable Bluetooth® Temperature Monitor that allows you to continuously  monitor fevers. The patch is soft and comfortable and can be used safety for 24 hours. It records and transmits temperature data safely for up to 24 hours to either an Apple® or Android™ compatible mobile device through the free TempTraq app. It can even send temperature alerts to give parents peace of mind and children the rest they need to get better. If I would have had this tool years ago I believe I may have been able to prevent my child’s seizure all together!

5. Keep them hydrated. Wholesome food is such an important component to care for sick kids but what is even more important is hydration. Inadequate fluids can play a factor in extremely elevated fevers and is also a concern with nausea and diarrhea. Consulting your physician is recommended to identify your child’s needs but as a Registered Dietitian I will share a few suggested foods that offer hydration: First, any food that will turn to a liquid at room temperature is considered a liquid (ice cream, jello, popsicles), soups and high water content fruit such as melon are all great sources. I have found if I turn electrolyte replacement beverages into homemade popsicles my children will consume more at times versus just drinking it.

I hope this Mom Hack for Sick Kids article was helpful.  I pray you all have a healthy cold and flu season BUT be prepared and get your TempTraq today so you can eliminate the pain and discomfort of your sick child having to be continually disturbed while removing the emotional strain and worry for you when the illness does come knocking on your door! Buy TempTraq now and thank me later.

Health and best wishes. Dovidenia. Xo

The post 5 Brilliant Mom Hacks for Sick Kids appeared first on Simple Acres Blog.

These are some of the feelings we often experience as mothers. Society speaks such a pressured message of perfection. I find myself believing this message sometimes. It seems that social media convinces us we should be able to be the schedule maker, cook, coach, instructor, mom boss MOM.

Just typing this makes me want to cry.

What if just “being” is enough and doing is the cream on your cup of “mom-tea” ? Would your feelings of guilt, frustration and failure be gone? Lets discover this.

I wrote this originally on a wonderful blogger and friend’s blog at Meaningful Mama.

Today I find myself distraught, down on myself, torn a million ways and to be honest emotional. I was scanning my drafts and I found this article and figured these words were not only a good reminder to myself but maybe to you as well.

Let’s look into that cup of tea we call motherhood. WHAT IF just purely being present, loving your child, being imperfectly human and offering your hand in their journey in life IS ENOUGH? 

What if your affection is enough and your presence as they sit on your lap while you pay bills or work is enough? What if your essence, your smell, the sound of your voice and your loving touch is enough? What if the gift of YOU as their mom with all your IMPERFECTION is ENOUGH?

If it were….and I believe IT IS… Mom Guilt would be banished.

Man…. My literal heart,self and purpose walking around…. A little crazy, cooky, creative and full of love! Can't wait to see what these amazing little humans will do! We dream, work and raise 'em up in our @durangoboots …wouldn't have it any other way! #ad #itsanattitude

A photo posted by Stefanie (@simpleacresblog) on Sep 13, 2016 at 2:59pm PDT

That simple cup of tea… yes, you…Mom… will suffice. 

My kids will kiss me and tell me they love me and how good I am often while inside I think, “No I’m not. ”

NO MORE. Mom guilt, I refuse you because you lie. 

See, I’ve come through a bit of a dark cloud these last few weeks and what I’ve learned is the activities, the trips to the park, the baking sessions, the sports camps and efforts to DO MOM-hood are the cream. They are great, don’t get me wrong, but they are the lavish cream on the top of the tea your child already loves. 

I am enough. You are enough. Love is enough and your best is enough. 

I don’t write as a parenting guru ever. When I write about parenting I just lay my vulnerabilities out in hopes that another may relate, feel hope and can take a deep breath in and know… It’s gonna be OK.

Momma you are doing good.

Tears well up in my eyes as I write this because I needed to hear that.  I have faith you do to.

I can not promise we will never face Mom Guilt again. I want to share 10 things I have learned to say to myself and am determined to say as I refuse guilt.

Positive Self Talk to Fight Mom Guilt

1. My presence matters.
2. My love is enough.
3. My best differs with each day.
4. Perfection is not needed, just persistence to love and teach.
5. My “doing” is not required to be a good mom. It’s the cream not the tea.
6. If I’m not quitting I’m succeeding.
7. Mistakes are for learning and growing.
8. ” Me-time” makes “their-time” better.
9. I’m not guilty.
10. Just breath.

Let’s refuse this Mom Guilt together and strive to just be there for our child with love and enjoy life more. Dovidenia. Xo

The post Mom Guilt, No More appeared first on Simple Acres Blog.

My life will never be the same. Before I get to why, I want to share the excitement I feel for this new stage we are in. A stage of growth, renewal, regimen, excitement and often chaos. With several children I can attest we mothers NEED the special moments to last. Today I am going to share my secrets to savoring morning time with toddlers. Like a great piece of delectable dessert, let us savor every moment of life with them. Let me show you how!

This post contains affiliate links.

My children are ALL in school this year. Often this evokes an array of emotions. There is a shift felt to my core regarding the stage my children are in now. This shift feels bittersweet but for the most part I feel excited. I’m excited to watch them learn and grow and heck, a few hours of “mommy alone time” never hurts!

My heart always yearns for special time with my babies. To be present is my constant battle. I battle the need to work, perform daily tasks and responsibilities as I try to hold on to the special moments with my babies as well. This takes INTENTION.

Today started differently. First, with a new Fall season brought on a rather wet and overcast day. These days are my favorite and Fall is my heaven of seasons. For some reason this type of weather makes it easier to slow down. Now, I must say that I am lucky as currently my two “littles” get to start their school later in the day which offers us ample time to spend quality moments together. This will be the LAST year I have both of them still half the day I am home. That being said I want to savor my morning time with my toddlers! 

I hope my story, much in pictures, illustrates my secrets to savoring special moments that can be useful with YOUR kids.

We started by walking the farm together and chasing our kittens who are always on the move. It was fun to just “adventure” with my kids and view the world from their angle. These kitties are on the look out for the cows we just recently brought home.

This simple adventure behind the barn with the kids and kittens built up an appetite even our old lab wanted a part of. For our mornings, we want something quick, simple and healthy to eat for breakfast. Something that gives us the energy we need to get busy with our day. This need called for a breakfast break on the porch together.

After much nibbling and a few arguments of who’s bowl was who’s my little ones were fed and ready to continue venturing out on the farm.

We planted pumpkins for the first time this year. The pumpkins are doing amazing and the kids have fun finding and claiming which pumpkin is who’s.

My little guy is very observant and wanted to check out the size of each pumpkin he found!

Then there is my adventure seeker Sis, who would much rather run around and trample on the pumpkins because it’s fun!

We did some dog walking and “training” with our black labs.

We did some dog lovin’ with hugs and smooches.

We called our cows until they came up close to the fence to visit us.

Sis fed the cows a few ears of corn from our garden.

My little man fed his ear of corn. The throwing as far as he could was his favorite part.

We took a hot chocolate break and warmed up. Then we found mud puddles and OF COURSE jumped in them!

The moral of my story is that the secrets to savoring morning time with toddlers is this:

1. Feed them full of simple nutritious food for breakfast. A wholesome start is a full tummy and a happy toddler.
2. Let them lead in adventure.
3. Follow along whether it being playing with them or catching the memories with photos.
4. Lastly, reflect often on these savored moments as I am now while writing this to you.

As a mom and blogger I love being able to collaborate with a company I truly love. Honey Bunches of Oats is a cereal I have eaten since I was a kid. I have a nostalgic affection for this cereal. If you haven’t tried all their varieties this is the time to do so!

There you have it friends, savor morning time better. Love life, love yourself and love your family…life is too short for anything less. Dovidenia. XO

P.S. For more on life, parenting and nourishing our heart, soul and tummies follow me here on Instagram!

Being a mom is hard. Half the time I feel defeated, but then I look at the pictures I snap for the day and I feel such a strong drive to keep pushing to be the best mom ever! If today was rough momma, know tmrw starts new and if anything… Just love the best you can everyday… It will be alright. At least that's what I tell myself??

A photo posted by Stefanie (@simpleacresblog) on Aug 23, 2016 at 8:04pm PDT

P.S. x 2 For inspiration on recipes, health, simplifying life, country living, farmhouse decor and creativity follow me here on Pinterest!

I love this camera for catching special moment with my kids and it is so simple to use my kids use it as well!

The post The Secrets to Savoring Morning Time with Toddlers appeared first on Simple Acres Blog.

Gratitude. The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.

This is the dictionary stated meaning of the word. Teaching my kids gratitude is something I am determined to do this coming school year. I believe living with gratitude is the key to happiness. Let’s dive into 5 ways to teach gratitude to children.

Simple living is my current journey. This includes simplified DIY projects and decor or recipes that bring you back to the basics of nutrition but what I love more than all the life “hacks” for simplicity is helping people find success in the simple.

What is finding success through the simple?

It means leaning into the things that truly add value to life and change us from the inside out. Things such as gratitude is a perfect example of that. I am thrilled to be partnering with The Coca-Cola Company, Kellogg Company, J.M. Smucker Company, and The HERSHEY’S Company to demonstrate a simple way to share with others and teach our children gratitude through learning, reading and giving to those in need this back to school season.

Below are just a few of the food items ( there is a multitude) that offer books for each product purchase and their common location in Walmart to find them. Look for the added star on the front of their labels.

I want my children to have a heart for others and I want them to realize how much they have to be thankful for. I am always thinking of ways to teach this to my kids and I am excited to share some of my ideas.

5 Ways to Teach Gratitude to Children

1. Gratitude scavenger hunt. My kids love to “hunt for treasure” and pretend with me! Believe me, my husband is often standing from afar laughing at us as we enter “imagination land”. Scavenger hunts help kids to become aware of the simple things in nature they can be grateful for. We’ve made a free printable that you can download of the scavenger hunt.

2. Gratitude wall. I love home decor at Simple Acres. I am looking forward to painting a wall in my house soon with chalkboard paint above our kitchen table. This will be a place I will encourage the family to reflect on things they are grateful for. Dinner time is a great time to do this. We will be covering the wall with chalk written statements of gratitude as a family. (Coming soon!) If a whole wall isn’t your thing a smaller chalkboard set somewhere in everyone’s view is a simple idea as well.

3. Get creative. There are so many ways to teach gratitude to our children and often art is a powerful tool for teaching and self expression. This gratitude roundup by Rhythms of Play is full of a year of ideas to do with your kids that is fun and educational.

4. Volunteer to help others in need. Some of my children are finally getting old enough to be able to come with me to help others in need. I have been looking forward to volunteering in a food bank for some time and was absolutely thrilled with the opportunity to partner with The Coca-Cola Company, Kellogg Company, J.M. Smucker Company, and The HERSHEY’S Company with this project. The reason being, we will be using some of the food we are buying and the FREE books we are receiving to donate to the food shelter. Serving others who are in need or less fortunate teaches kids to not only appreciate what they have but also how to share in the gifts life has presented them. I believe gratitude is much more genuine when it inspires giving of oneself!

5. Gift with generosity. Gifting is giving of oneself in a tangible way. Being generous is the by product of acknowledging the many things one is grateful for. The kids and I will be taking our books and and some of The HERSHEY’S Company treats we bought and creating simple gift baskets out of brown lunch bags, some string, a label and recipe card and so much more. Below is a recipe card you can print if you would like to make bags with books and chocolates.This S’mores Dip and Chocolate Covered Cracker recipe is delicious.

Here is some of our gift kit makings. All you need is the materials pictured below. This simple DIY “generosity basket” is something the kids can make with you.

Materials:

• scholastic books
• back to school materials: erasers, pens, pencils, notebooks, scissors, stapler, glue, play-do
• gift bags for goodies
• foods from The Coca-Cola Company, Kellogg Company, J.M. Smucker Company, and The HERSHEY’S Company
• recipe card to include your favorite recipe that includes the foods above
• tulle or tissue paper for decor
• string

Here is the free downloadable recipe card printable: recipe card

Place it all in a basket ready to give to others. I also made a basket for each of my children to use at homework time through the week.

Here is the deal! You earn a free Scholastic book by purchasing any of the over 100 participating Coca-Cola, HERSHEY’S, Kellogg’s, or J.M. Smucker’s products at Walmart between 6/29/16 – 9/30/16 (1 item = 1 book).

Here are the steps to redeeming your FREE books.

1. Buy any participating Coca-Cola, HERSHEY’S, Kellogg’s, or J.M. Smucker product at Walmart between 6/29/16 and 9/30/16. For a full list of participating products, refer to here.

2. Join or log in to Kellogg’s Family Rewards. This is located at the top right of the screen.

3. Upload your receipt within 30 days of purchase.
4. Choose or donate your free book.

Within minutes I had uploaded my receipt and selected my FREE books! This is a Walmart exclusive program that helps you enjoy the gift of learning as a family while you get to teach your children the value of paying it forward!

Friends, I hope you will take advantage of this Walmart exclusive “Start School Like a Champion” program where Coca-Cola®, Kellogg’s®, HERSHEY’S, and ©/® J.M. Smucker have teamed up with Scholastic.

I love that while I do my back to school shopping I can have the opportunity to redeem books that become the vehicle for teaching my kids the gift of giving and blessing others with not only food but the opportunity to have their own books to enjoy.

Let’s teach gratitude this season by not only taking part in the generosity of these companies but in sharing in this very important part of life, GIVING and learning!

Here is a book case perfect for all the books you will collect (affiliate link).

Here is a fun outdoors scavenger hunt kit for families (affiliate link).

Here is a chalk board perfect for starting a gratitude wall at your home (affiliate link).

If you would like to follow our journey of the simple life, family, food, and creativity in a more personal way join us on Instagram!

Today I am grateful for my little ones and the precious moments we can teach them and love them. What are you grateful for?

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Just playing airplanes outside with my princess. It's important to take a step away from work and business and be present. Man… I LOVE my babies!❤️💙💗

A post shared by Stefanie at Simple Acres (@simpleacresblog) on Aug 6, 2016 at 5:48pm PDT

The post 5 Ways to Teach Gratitude to Children appeared first on Simple Acres Blog.