Book List 2

Apparently summer time is reading time for Momma.. I don't know how in the world I manage to actually read with 6kids at home on Summer Break but they do seem to entertain each other some :)  It's that or I use reading as an escape and need to escape more in the summer?? hmm..

Today, I ran to the library to return a few books from last time and because I'm a meanie mom, I didn't let either big kid come in with me.. You see school is getting ready to start next week.. When school is in session, I tend to try and limit trips to the public library because otherwise they leave their books at school (normally in their lockers) and constantly forget to bring them home which leads to whining. ugh.

Today's list I highly recommend.. In fact, I recommend anything by this author as I've yet to go wrong..




The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever ~ Julia Quinn
 *****+*  Book 1 of  The Bevelstoke Series.
One of my all time favorites.. I've read Julia Quinn before but it's been a while.. Once I picked this one up, I could not put it down. It's wonderful! The one thing that makes it a favorite to me is that she didn't just end it... There are a few places where most authors would have ended the story and just said "And they lived happily ever after" but Ms. Quinn went above and beyond.. I was fully satisfied when the story ended, not sitting there wishing for just a little bit more.  To give my highest praise, I would re-read this one over and over!







On The Way To The Wedding ~ Julia Quinn

*****Yet another great book.  I'm left to wonder how often the author writes about real life and just sets it back in a historical time. A book about true love and how it feels when you meet the person of your dreams and just know in an instant that they are "the one".. or maybe not.  Our hero realizes his initial mistake and quickly falls in love for real.   My heart thumps. A nice addition is the setting.. I , for one, have always wanted to live in England back in the ages of  Lords & Ladies.









It's In His Kiss ~ Julia Quinn
***** I am beginning to think that I will just start repeating my praise with each additional book.. But alas I <3 Julia Quinn..  I always fall immediately in love with the characters (it helps that she does so many related books- a story for each sibling, ect) and can't wait to read more.  This is definitely an author that I'd like to add to my list of keeps vs borrows!





Happy Reading and as always, be sure to let me know if you go out and read any of the books!!

Continue reading →

Five Lessons Every Kid Should Learn

Being a mom of 6 kids there seems to be a never ending supply of things that you need to teach them.. From potty training, to tying their shoes.. The list goes on and on.. Being asked to compile just FIVE lessons, hmprh.. it's difficult to reduce down to five especially when you are gifted with the power of blab. Alas, rules are rules and I try to follow them.

So my top Five most important lessons that every kid should learn :

1. Love. Love always tops everything and has to be #1 on the list. A child needs to know that no matter what a parent's love is unconditional. Sure we get mad at the things you do, but we always love you. Since Southern Darlin' joined our family, this one sticks out alot to me.. She spent 3years of her life not knowing love, her adjustment to us is doing well but you can still see it in her eyes.. She's amazed that we put up with her.. She's amazed that we could still love her even when she's naughty. Love is the most important lesson.

2. Respect. I'm a firm believer in kids respecting their elders, their parents and heck even their siblings. Respect goes a long way. If I had my way, all kids would still do as most southern kids do and call everyone Ma'am & Sir.. Or Miss Kelly. Respect for parents means following the rules that are set forth (normally for your own darn good). Respect for our siblings- hello, please don't break your sister's toy just because she has one , you don't and she didn't want to share right this second. It's not nice, causes hard feelings and normally fighting ensures which then makes Momma have to yell and we're back to respecting your parents and not making Momma scream!

3. Be Proud.. Be proud of who you are.. Be yourself. Don't give into peer pressure. Feel comfortable in your own skin. You are wonderful just how you are.. And if I gave birth to you (Attitude King & Drama Queen, I'm talking to YOU) don't you dare point out things that just "aren't good enough". I spent 10months creating your life, 14 & 23hrs in labor giving birth to you.. You are as perfect as they come and it's how you are supposed to be.. I don't do things halfway. Dissing yourself is like dissing my motherhood skills so step off!

4. Be Happy. Life is short, don't dwell on the past. Learn from your mistakes and move on. If you can't do anything about a worry, then tuck it away and just be happy. Happiness is contagious :)

5. The Golden Rule - Do unto others... I am always asking the kids- how would you feel if XX did that to you? Let's try to treat each other the way we want to be treated. It's a very important lesson to learn and apply to life..

6. (cuz I never can follow rules) - Family.. Family is so important.. Friendships come and go but your family is there for life. Love them, respect them, take care of one another. Having a large family makes me as a Mom feel happy, relieved, secure.. When Daddy Chaos and I are long gone, my kids will still have their siblings..


Disclaimer:      I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Nanny McPhee Returns blogging program, making me eligible to get a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

Continue reading →