Stephanie's Mommy Brain

What are we doing these days?

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

When we aren't training the littlest cowboy...

Or hunting pirates...

We're kicked backed reading or...

falling asleep trying to.

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

I mentioned briefly in my photo shoot post that I have Rheumatoid arthritis. That may have surprised some of my regular readers since I haven't written about my life with RA on this blog. I'm changing that now.

As a newly diagnosed patient in 2000, I scoured the web for information about Rheumatoid arthritis. Other than the Arthritis Foundation, I didn't find much. And other than in their forums, I didn't find ANY personal stories.

So, for my regular readers and any newly diagnosed RA patients who have stumbled across my blog, I am sharing my story now.

Rather than create another label for RA, I'm going to use this article as a list of all my disease related posts. As they are published I will link to them from here.

Photo Shoot at My House!
The Beginning
Getting Worse AFTER my 1st Diagnosis
2nd Diagnosis
The Difference Enbrel Makes for Me
Pregnancy and the Disease
Living with Chronic Illness and Faith

If you have any questions feel free to comment or email me.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor nor do I pretend to be one on TV. This post is intended to tell my experiences NOT to serve as medical advice. If your symptoms sound similar, please consult a physician.

Disclaimer: I have not been asked by a pharmaceutical company or any related organizations to write these posts. I have not been compensated for these posts in anyway (including money, medication, or medical treatments).

Moderating Comments

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 03:07:00 +0000

Dear Regular Readers,

I have been receiving spam comments on some of my old posts. I have been going into each post, deleting the spam and closing comments on the individual posts.

Unfortunately the amount of spam is increasing and taking more time (and annoyance) to delete.

As a reader, I prefer to see my comments immediately, because of this I have never moderated my comments. But the spammers have driven me to it.

For now I will set comments to be moderated. I'm truly sorry about this.

Thanks for understanding!
-Stephanie

Ben and Cows.

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

"Do cows pow you in the stomach?"

- Ben, 3 years old.

Picture from our trip to

my parents farm in Arkansas, May 2007.

On fence is Will. Ground is Ben. And the grown-ups are my brother and sister-in-law.

I found this gem in my draft folder dated from last year. I don't know why I never published it!

Photo Shoot at My House!

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:29:00 +0000

On Tuesday, November 10, before 8:00 AM, an RV and 3 SUVs parked outside my house. They contained (at my best count) 13 people.

A producer. A photographer. A videographer (?). The photographer's assistant. 3 people from a pharmaceutical company. Several people from an ad agency. 1 person from a Patient Advocate Organization. The RV driver. And a whole bunch of other people who I could never figure out exactly what they did. :)

They had all come to my small home to photograph me and my family. Talk about surreal!!!

You may be wondering why. Well, 9+ years ago I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis. Not too long after that I joined a patient advocate organization (Vibrant Lives) that's sponsored by the pharmaceutical company that makes the medication I take.

Basically, they occasionally call me to tell my story about living with RA and the medication I take.

So, a couple of months ago Zaheeda (that's her on the right), from Vibrant Lives called to ask if I would be interested in doing a photo shoot for promotional material (I think it will be targeted at medical people). I said sure!

But I didn't think they would actually come. See, in all these years they call 2-3 times a year but I've only gone to 3 events. I didn't think they'd really pick me (and my family)!!

Long story made short, they did pick me! First, 4 people came on a scouting trip. Then 2 weeks later 13 people showed up for the actual shoot. Joel just happened to have the day off already, which was good!

It was really strange at first to interact with my kids knowing a camera was taking our picture. But after a while I learned to pretend the camera wasn't there. I guess all those years of taking my kids to the store as taught me to ignore people who are watching me. :)

Everyone was very patient with my kids. Answering their questions. Showing them the RV. Playing baseball with William. My kids can be a lot to take so I really appreciated how good natured everyone was.

In fact, we invited the whole group to join us in an annual fall tradition - jumping in the leaves!! 8 of them took us up on the offer!

I have to say, watching everyone laugh and smile and have a good time jumping in the leaves was my favorite part of the day!

Sometime or other, I have no idea when, I will receive copies of some of the photographs and promotional material. When I do, I'll be sure to show them to you - after the official start date.

It really was a crazy, surreal experience. But also fun. A lot of fun. (For extroverts like me and William.)

Disclaimer: Even though I don't mention the medicine's name in this post, I should probably say I'm being given a stipend of $750 for doing the scouting trip and the actual photo shoot.

Little Women the Movie

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

I decided the 5 Minutes for Books book club on Louisa May Alcott was the perfect excuse to indulge in a "girl" movie. So I searched my library's on-line catalog to see if I could bring it home for free.

Low and behold I found not one version of "Little Women" but four (and brought home two)!

1. 1933 by Radio Pictures, produced by David O. Selznik. Starring Katharine Hepburn. Winner of the 1933 Oscar for Best Screenplay (Adaptation).

2. 1949 by MGM Pictures. Starring Elizabeth Taylor. Winner of the 1950 Oscar for Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Color.

3. 1978 NBC Universal. Winner of 1979 Outstanding Art Direction for a Series. Nominated for 1979 Golden Globe Best Motion Picture Made for TV.

4. 1994 Columbia Pictures. Nominated for 1995 Best Actress in a Leading Role - Winona Ryder.

I watched the 1978 NBC version first.

It's long. REALLY long. I didn't realize it was a mini-series, though that became apparent when I saw the breaks where commercials should have been. The case says it's 194 minutes long (almost 3.5 hours!). Truly over an hour too long.

I also found it hard to disconnect the actresses/actors from other roles they've played. For example:

Meredith Baxter Birney (Meg) - Michael J. Fox's t.v. mom!
Susan Dey (Jo) - The Partridge Family
Eve Plumb (Beth) - Jan Brady!
Robert Young (Grandfather Laurence) - Father Knows Best
William Shatner (Professor Bauer) - Captain Kirk!!!
John de Lancie (Amy's love interest) - "Q"!!

Honestly, William Shatner as a German professor was just too much for me. Once he came on the screen I just couldn't get into the movie.

The movie as a whole really felt melodramatic to me. I'm all for drama but Beth's death lasted over 30 minutes. It was all a bit much for me.

My recommendation: Skip the 1978 Television movie.

Next I watched the 1949 MGM Version. I'm so glad I watched it last so that its story is what's in my mind!

Once again big-name actresses were used but this time I didn't have any mental connections with them. Other than Elizabeth Taylor, who I didn't really enjoy in this film but more because I don't enjoy the character of Amy.

One detail I found interesting is that the March home in this film is identical to Orchard House. So much so that William (6 years old) wandered in, watched for a few minutes and asked about the house being the one we toured.

Another detail is that they switched Amy and Beth in the age order. Apparently the girl that wanted to use for Beth was younger than Elizabeth Taylor so they just switched them. Annoying, but I can live with it.

Overall I enjoyed this version MUCH better than the 1978 one. But, I think that in both movies the producers/writers try to include too much of the first part of the book and not enough of the second part. Beth seems to take a long time to die but Jo's love for "her Professor" kind of springs out of nowhere.

Now I'm wondering if I should bring home the other 2 movies for comparision. Purely for research purposes of course. Not because I enjoy a girly movie every once in a while. {grinning}

My recommendation: Watch the 1949 version.

What do you think? Which Little Women Movie is your favorite?

*** This post is included in a series on Louisa May Alcott.

Little Women the Musical

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 02:30:00 +0000

As I searched my library catalog for the "Little Women" movie I stumbled across "Little Women the Musical."

I had no idea someone had made a musical of Louisa May Alcott's beloved book!

According to the blog, the Broadway production appears to have toured from about August 2005 to August 2006. I didn't take the time to read through the blog but it is full of pictures of the cast and crew.

I recently listened to the original Broadway cast recording on CD. It made me want to go see a Broadway show!! I always enjoy a good musical.

Though I enjoyed the music on the CD, I found it difficult to follow the story. No dialogue is included so if you aren't familiar with the novel already you will be totally lost by song number 3.

From what I could gather, the musical begins with Jo in New York rejected. She then starts writing and flashbacks to the "good" years before she left home. During the flashback we hear several songs of her dramatic over-the-top early writings. Then we are brought back to her present and find her at home in Concord, Massachusetts.

In all honesty, I didn't enjoy this CD as a representation of "Little Women." Too much liberty was taken with the story for my liking. And the songs just don't fit with the personality of Jo March.

But, if your library happens to have a copy you can listen to for free then go for it! If nothing else, it'll make you dance around the house (or wish you could dance, depending on your dancing abilities).

Had you heard of Little Women the Musical before? Did you see it on tour?

*** This post is included in a series on Louisa May Alcott.

Happy Birthday, Jennifer!

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Happy Birthday, Jennifer!!!

Because I am a slacker sister-in-law and NEVER get a card mailed in time for Jennifer's birthday, I'm writing this post to make up for yet another late card.

In August Stephen (my brother) and Jennifer came from Arkansas to visit us. We met Addi for the first time, they met Sam for the first time, we celebrated Ellie's 3rd birthday AND we went to the zoo.

It was a fun time!

Here we are trying to get 5 children and 4 adults to all look at the camera at the same time. Impossible! And yes, Ben has a scraped forehead and nose. He had a bicycle accident a few days before. Funny thing, he was wearing his helmet at the time.

Can anything be cuter than these two cheerleaders? I don't think so either!! :)

Happy birthday, Jenn!

We hope your day is filled with fun, food and family!! Maybe we can celebrate with you next year.

"Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott" by Yona Zeldis McDonough

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

On a recent trip to our local library I saw "Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott" by Yona Zeldis McDonough on display. Knowing that the 5 Minutes for Books Louisa May Alcott book club was coming up, I dropped the book into my already stuffed book bag and brought it home.

This biography tells the life story of Louisa May beginning from her birth to her death. Several snapshots of her childhood are included such as weekly family pillow fights and being rescued from the Boston Commons frog pond by a black boy. Her myriad of jobs are also described; from teacher to housemaid to Civil War nurse and, finally, to author.

Along with the simple telling of Louisa's life the book includes some of her quotes, two of her earliest poems, facts about the Alcott family and a short bibliography. It's definitely not your typical children's picture book.

My children (1-6 years) are still a little young for this book but children (especially girls) in 4-8 grades would probably enjoy it. I can see it being a good introduction to the biography genre or a valuable resource after reading some of Miss Alcott's books.

While writing this review I read the website of the author Yona Zeldis McDonough. Under her biography section she had this to say:

"...when you are reader, you just need to read. Sometimes you read books that change your life, like OF MICE AND MEN, which I read--and adored-- when I was in sixth grade. Other times, you read the latest adventures of Betty and Veronica. You’ll read a three-day old newspaper or the back of the cereal box if that’s all that there is available, because readers just need to read."

I couldn't agree with her more!! "Louisa" is my first introduction to Ms. McDonough. I'm definitely interested in reading more of her books. I recommend you do the same.

*** This post is included in a series on Louisa May Alcott.

"Jack and Jill" by Louisa May Alcott

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

"Jack and Jill went up a hill to fetch a pail of water. Jack fell down and broke his crown and Jill came tumbling after."

So goes the old nursery rhyme and the main characters of "Jack and Jill" by Louisa May Alcott. The two children, friends in a small town, start the story sledding during Christmas vacation.

Unfortunately, they are a little too daring on the sled and each end up with an injury that keeps them out of school for months. The remainder of the story recounts their activities and the lessons they learn as they heal.

I found this book fascinating to read after I toured Miss Alcott's home, Orchard House. Three things in this story really struck me: the children learn moral lessons and improve their characters by the end of the story; the mothers decide to home school the children even when they are healed; the children write and perform plays and skits while making their own entertainment.

I've mentioned before that I prefer old children's books. The children in these books usually mature due to natural consequences of their "adventures." I SO prefer this to modern stories with whiny, smart-mouthed kids! Apparently Miss Alcott (and her father) also believed children should develop moral characters along with their academic work.

The knowledge that Miss Alcott's father was a teacher who promoted educational philosophies unheard of in his day helped me understand her motivation at having the mothers in this story choose to home school. She used the two mothers as a means of promoting some of her father's ideas. As a home school mom, I was especially intrigued by the description of their lessons which sound a lot like Charlotte Mason's philosophy!

I also learned at the Orchard House that Miss Alcott and her sisters often wrote and performed skits to entertain their parents and guests. It appears that Miss Alcott often drew on her own childhood for writing material. As I recall the sisters of Little Women also performed homemade plays.

I thoroughly enjoyed this fun little story. I'm sure boys and girls of all ages would like reading about the trials and successes of Jack and Jill as they heal from their injuries and the poor character qualities that caused them.

*** This post is included in a series on Louisa May Alcott.

Orchard House: Home of Louisa May Alcott

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

After living in New England for 12 years, I finally decided this was the year to see Orchard House, the family home of Louisa May Alcott.

So when my Mom visited in August we packed up the family and drove to Concord, Massachusetts. I had no idea how much American and literary history is packed in that small town!!

Guided tours are available of the Orchard House for a fee. Of course we handed over ~~our~~ Mom's money and joined a tour. In hindsight, I should have suggested Joel and the kids play outside or in the grassy field across the street. Will was very interested in the tour but little hands are inclined to touch and that was specifically forbidden. I would have enjoyed the tour more if I hadn't been concerned with someone knocking over a priceless antique!

Even with the distraction of 4 small children I managed to learn a few things from the tour:

Orchard House is where Miss Alcott wrote her popular book "Little Women." Today the house is owned by a not-for-profit corporation who operates a museum about the Alcott family. In fact, part of the tour includes Miss Alcott's bedroom (upper right windows) where you can see the original desk where she wrote her books (picture taking is not allowed inside so I can't show it to you).

Louisa and her sisters would write short plays and then perform them for guests. They even had a curtain across a doorway that would be drawn while they ran up the backstairs to change costumes for the next act.

Bronson Alcott (Louisa's father) was a teacher. He believed everyone, including girls, should be well educated. Many of his ideas were not popular at the time but are taken for granted today.

Louisa's sister was encouraged to draw and paint anywhere - including the walls of the house. Many of the walls are covered with her drawings.

I couldn't help laughing to myself when the guide drew our attention to an "Order of Indoor Duties" that Mrs. Alcott had written and posted on the wall. She had times for specific chores, school work, walks, and meals. The guide seemed to think this was an oddity as did the rest of the tour group. It made complete sense to me!

I'm glad I can now say I've visited the home of Louisa May Alcott, author of "Little Women." Have you visited Orchard House? If not, put it on your list of things to do in New England!

*** This post is included in a series on Louisa May Alcott.

Louisa May Alcott Series

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

I have long been a fan of Louisa May Alcott. In fact, I can't remember when I first read her popular novel "Little Women", though I'm sure it was in high school over 16 years ago. (Wow! When did I get old enough to say that?!) "Little Men" and "Jo's Boys" were also quickly read.

Because I'm a fan of Louisa May Alcott, or more accurately "Little Women," I'm excited to join 5 Minutes for Books November book club! On November 3 participants will be linking their reviews of any book by Miss Alcott. It should be fun to read about her lesser known works!

In anticipation of November 3, I have published 5 posts:

I hope you enjoy them!

Review: "If God is Good" by Randy Alcorn

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 20:33:00 +0000

Last month the folks at Random House sent me a copy of Randy Alcorn's new book, "If God is Good." Unfortunately I have been unable to find the time to read the book so (as per my agreement with them) I am posting the summary they sent me about the book.

Again, I have not read this book. I scanned through the table of contents and a couple of chapters. It SEEMS solid but I can't tell you for sure. So, please do not purchase it based on my recommendation. Check out other reviews to see if it's worth reading.

Here's the summary:

Every one of us will experience suffering. Many of us are experiencing it now. As we have seen in recent years, evil is real in our world, present and close to each one of us.

In such difficult times, suffering and evil beg questions about God--Why would an all-good and all-powerful God create a world full of evil and suffering? And then, how can there be a God if suffering and evil exist?

These are ancient questions, but also modern ones as well. Atheists such as Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, and even former believers like Bart Ehrman answer the question simply: The existence of suffering and evil proves there is no God.

In this captivating new book, best-selling author Randy Alcorn challenges the logic of disbelief, and brings a fresh, realistic, and thoroughly biblical insight to the issues these important questions raise.

Alcorn offers insights from his conversations with men and women whose lives have been torn apart by suffering, and yet whose faith in God burns brighter than ever. He reveals the big picture of who God is and what God is doing in the world–now and forever. And he equips you to share your faith more clearly and genuinely in this world of pain and fear.

As he did in his best-selling book, Heaven, Randy Alcorn delves deep into a profound subject, and through compelling stories, provocative questions and answers, and keen biblical understanding, he brings assurance and hope to all.

The review book was provided by Random House, Inc. Follow the link to purchase "If God is Good."

Review: "You Were Born for This" by Bruce Wilkinson

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:00:00 +0000

“What if I told you I'm certain you missed a miracle yesterday? And not just any miracle but one that Heaven wanted to do through you to significantly change someone's life for the better—maybe your own?”

So begins Bruce Wilkinson's (of The Prayer of Jabez fame) latest book, You Were Born for This: 7 Keys to a Life of Predictable Miracles. Wilkinson sets out to teach the reader how to consistently perform miracles (aka “divine coincidences, miracle moments, supernatural provisions”) for other people. Frankly, I believe this book has several flaws, therefore, I do NOT recommend you read this book. Let me repeat that, I do NOT recommend this book.

Wilkinson's practical examples do not match his definition of a miracle. On page 16 he defines a miracle as “an extraordinary event manifesting divine intervention in human affairs.” That brings to my mind Jesus making the blind see, the lame walk, the sick healthy, and the dead alive. While I do not doubt the working of the Holy Spirit in Wilkinson's examples, I don't find them to be “extraordinary.”

For example, he tells the story of a man walking through a large airport praying for God to use him for a miracle. The man then feels led to talk to a young female store clerk that he just made a purchase from. The woman reveals that she's pregnant and going for medical tests soon to confirm if something is wrong with the baby. The two pray together and she feels comforted. On the man's return trip he finds the woman and the two rejoice that the baby is fine.

Divine intervention to provide comfort for the young woman? Absolutely. An extraordinary event? Not really.

Wilkinson's method of achieving a life filled with predictable miracles has little to do with a life filled with prayer, Bible study, Scripture memorization or spiritual disciplines. Instead you say a prayer making yourself available to God for his “assignment” and then you watch for it all day. When you see certain signs and feel the Spirit prompting you then you act.

Maybe I'm nitpicking but I think he has the cart before the horse. The “miracles” he describes should be the outcome of a live filled with spiritual disciplines, not the reverse. A Christian's focus should be on Jesus, not what amazing experience can I have today.

Wilkinson's analogy of Heaven as “Command Central” and Christians as God's “partner” paint a picture of a weak God. The presence of God is a dreadful (in the overwhelming, awe-inspiring sense) place to be. It is NOT an office where messages are sent out just as a courier or messenger service sends out people. Also, God chooses to use people to accomplish his will but we are not his partners. Partners imply equality. We are never on the same level as God. We are his creation, his children and his servants. But never his partners.

I'm sure that this book will become wildly popular and widely quoted. It utilizes that feel-good, experience based philosophy that is so common among Christian literature right now. And I'm sure many good deeds and “miracles” will be accomplish in the next few years, I'm just not sure that lives will significantly be changed.

This book was provided for review by Random House, Inc. You may purchase the book at their website through this link: You Were Born for This.

Apple Picking Book Recommendations

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:00:00 +0000

It's apple picking time in New England! In honor of our annual tradition, here are a few excellent books on apples and apple picking that I found at my local library.

Amazing Apples, written and illustrated by Consie Powell.
Published by Albert Whitman & Co. in 2003.
ISBN 0-8075-0399-1

Amazing Apples uses simple poems in acrostic form to describe apple orchards and apple picking. The poems are clever and and not forced for the sake of the acrostic form. For a peek at the inside of the book follow the Amazing Apples link.

My 6 year old reader did not notice the acrostics when he read the book by himself. However, once I pointed them out he easily understood the concept of an acrostic. He thought writing his own acrostic would be fun, though it might be a challenge since his spelling isn't as good as his reading yet.

In addition to the fun poems, I also enjoyed the illustrations. Mrs. Powell used hand-colored woodblocks to create the images. Each page is filled with colorful details to interest the eye. Maybe we will use some potato blocks to illustrate our own acrostic poems next week.

The Life and Times of the Apple, written and illustrated by Charles Micucci.
Published by Orchard Books in 1992.
ISBN 0-531-05939-1

Grafting, parts of the flower, statistics on apple production around the world, The Life and Times of the Apple is chock full of information about the apple.

In addition to the apple facts, the illustrations are fantastic! Using watercolor and pencil, Micucci shows you the fine details of the parts of an apple flower, how a bee pollinates an the flower and how the flower turns into an apple. Despite all of the facts The Life and Times of the Apple manages to maintain a whimsical attitude that children and grown-ups will enjoy.

Those are my apple book recommendations for this year. What apple books do you recommend I read next year?

Autumn's here but where am I?

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 19:40:00 +0000

Wow! When I wrote "see you in Autumn" back in July I never expected to be almost half way through October when I wrote again!

I took a bloggy break because I had become completely overwhelmed by life. I needed to step back, re-evaluate my priorities and put some habits in place that reflected my priorities.

So that's what I've been doing. I've been working a good daily routine for almost 2 months, having quiet times, doing school with my children and cooking supper every night. Taking a break has been a good thing.

In addition to the mundane activities of life, I have:

* Attended a Homeschool Co-op every Friday with my children. That's the kids before we left for the first co-op meeting.

Will is in 5 classses: drama, science 1, study hall, science 1, and P.E. Ben is in Bible (think Sunday school), drama, science/history, P.E. and Movie (the under 5 crew are wore out by this time and lay on the floor for a video). Ellie joins Ben for everything but science/history. And Sam just enjoys playing with all the bright and noisy toys in the church's nursery. Meanwhile I'm helping in a Writing 2 class and hanging out with moms. It's a fun but exhausting day.

* Watched "Thomas the Tank Engine: Hero of the Rails" in a theatre with my kids. We enjoyed the movie, a story and FREE pizza.

* Visited the Audubon Society of Rhode Island Educational Center. VERY cool. The center is smallish but well done with exhibits explaining the flora and fauna of Rhode Island marshes and woodlands.

There is also a nature trail where we saw a snapping turtle, many frogs, a praying mantis, huge grasshoppers, tracks in the mud from a raccoon and large bird, and lots of plants we couldn't identify. (By the way, if you live in RI, the Center is free all day on the 1st Saturday of each month.)

* Visited our local library MANY times. Will has developed a voracious appetite for books. He's reading at a 2/3 grade level (remember he's in the 1st grade). He and I agreed this week that we need a weekly library day to keep him supplied, so Wednesday afternoon will now find us picking out fresh reading material.

* Took a field trip to the New Bedford Whaling Museum. Also VERY cool. The boys were studying whales in science (Apologia, Zoology 2 Aquatic Life. EXCELLENT) so we decided to make the trip into Massachusetts. Unfortunately, we were not able to tour other sites, but you should definitely check out this link to the New Bedford Whaling National Park.

This picture shows Joel and the kids in the lobby. That's 4 whale skeleton's suspended in the air behind them. The largest one (head on the right) is a juvenile Blue Whale (the largest mammal on earth). (Btw RI people, Cranston Library has free passes.)

That's what I've been busy doing. I'm trying to work out a routine that will give me time to blog (I've missed it!!) but for the foreseeable future I'm going to be hit or miss around here. If you enjoy reading about the goings on at my house I recommend you subscribe via google reader or email. Then when something new is posted you'll know about it.

Until later...

"The Friends We Keep" by Sarah Zacharias Davis

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:04:00 +0000

Edited 8.25.09: Congratulations Amy! You are the winner of the "Friends" giveaway. Thank you to everyone who left a comment. I enjoyed reading about your friendships.

I've made, and lost, a lot of friends in my short 34 years. Partly because we moved A LOT when I was growing up (9 school changes from K-12 qualifies as a lot!!) and partly because friendships are never static.

Summer 2009 brought with it two reminders of the ever-changing nature of friendship. First, I reconnected with several high school friends via Facebook. I NEVER thought I'd hear from that period of my life again!!

Reminder #1 Friends can come back into your life.

Secondly, my friend, Amy, announced that her family is moving an hour away. An hour is a long way when you are used to seeing someone every Sunday!

Reminder #2 Friends can leave your (daily) life after a season.

So, with all this in mind, I agreed to review The Friends We Keep: A Woman's Quest for the Soul of Friendship by Sarah Zacharias Davis. It seemed like a good time to read about friendships!

The Friends We Keep is not a how-to book. There aren't any tips on making or keeping friends. It's really more of a introspective look at why friendships change, the different roles we play in friendships, and why some friendships survive while others drift apart.

I most enjoyed the personal accounts in this book. It's comforting to hear that other women have drifted apart as their lives have taken different paths. It's also inspiring to read how a friend for a season can change a person.

As much as I enjoyed the personal accounts, I was a little disappointed by the frequent quotes and references to secular culture. I'm not saying secular culture is all bad. After all, how could a woman of my generation (which I think Davis is) write a book about friends and NOT refer to Anne of Green Gables and her bosom friend, Diana?!

It's just that using the four friends from "S*x in the City" as an example of ideal female friendships makes me very uncomfortable. I've never watched an episode in its entirety but I am aware that most of the show is contrary to my morals and beliefs.

But, this is not a review of popular culture and how much Christians should partake of it. I only mention these references because I feel a responsibility to my readers to know that I do not agree with everything included in this book.

Having said all of that, I have an additional copy to give away to a reader. Leave a comment by August 19 telling us about your oldest (or dearest, newest, etc.) friend and you will be entered in the drawing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I also have the privilege of recommending one of my favorite authors to you!!

Kay Arthur is a speaker, teacher and author. She is also a co-founder of Precepts Minstries.

The 40 Minute Bible Study series from beloved Bible teacher Kay Arthur and the teaching staff of Precept Ministries tackles important issues in brief, easy-to-grasp lessons you can use personally or for small-group discussion. Each book in the series includes six 40-minute studies designed to draw you into God’s Word through basic inductive Bible study. There are 16 titles in the series, with topics ranging from fasting and forgiveness to prayer and worship. With no homework required, everyone in the group can work through the lesson together at the same time. Let these respected Bible teachers lead you in a study that will transform your thinking—and your life.
Titles Include:

•The Essentials of Effective Prayer •Being a Disciple: Counting the Cost

•Building a Marriage That Really Works •Discovering What the Future Holds

•Forgiveness: Breaking the Power of the Past •Having a Real Relationship with God

•How Do You Walk the Walk and Talk the Talk? •Living a Life of Real Worship

•How to Make Choices You Won’t Regret •Living Victoriously in Difficult Times

•Money & Possessions: The Quest for Contentment •Rising to the Call of Leadership

•How Do You Know God’s Your Father? •Key Principles of Biblical Fasting

•A Man’s Strategy for Conquering Temptation •What Does the Bible Say About Sex?

Hearts at Home has a blog!

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:00:00 +0000

One of the things I love about blogging is the exchange of ideas that takes place; after all, what mom can't use a new idea every now and then!

If you are interested in a blog that brings a group of mommy bloggers all to one place, stop by and visit the Hearts at Home blog.

Hearts at Home's contributing bloggers write about motherhood, each with a unique perspective, reflecting on the spiritual, emotional and downright funny aspects of motherhood. Their group of bloggers range from professional speakers to authors to stay-at-home moms, all who share a passion for the profession of motherhood.

The Hearts at Home blog covers a variety of topics, such as practical mom tips, recipes, book reviews, and advice for tackling tough mommy issues.

Take a peek at this great resource and connect with real moms sharing real stories today!

*** Just for disclosure.

I am a member of the Hearts at Home blogger program which means they email me a blog post promoting their ministry. I can edit it or publish it "as is." This is an "as is" post.

If you are a regular reader you know I am cutting back on my blogging activities (writing and reading), which means I do not read the Hearts at Home blog at this time. However, I do receive and enjoy their monthly e-newsletter.

I've chosen to publish this post because I believe in the Hearts at Home ministry and think their blog is a positive resource for moms. I hope you enjoy it!!

Book Review: Blue Like Play Dough by Tricia Goyer

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Edited: Giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, Lara O.!! Your copy of this book will be in the mail as soon as I get to the post office. :)

Blue Like Play Dough by Tricia Goyer is a memoir of how God has pushed, pulled and squeezed Tricia to become the woman He wants her to be.

As a mom of small children who LOVE play dough (am I the only mom who hates the stuff?!), I totally get the analogy of God using life's circumstances to mold and shape us! Haven't we all felt stretched to the breaking point at times?! Just like that play dough snake rolled and stretched so thin it will separate in three places if you roll it one more time.

I am amazed how God uses those thin times in my life to grow me and change me. In fact, He's squishing and smooshing me now as I'm taking a step back from blogging to re-evaluate my priorities and activities.

I appreciate Tricia's transparency in this book. She doesn't sugar coat the poor choices she has made (a teen pregnancy being one of them). Rather she shares with the reader how God has used those poor choices (and good choices!!) to reveal HIS character and shape hers. She gives Him the glory for her transformation and successes.

Isn't that what we all want as Christian women? To develop God's character as our own and give him the glory for it?

If you want to feel encouraged and be reminded that your trials and difficulties have a purpose, I recommend you read Blue Like Play Dough by Tricia Goyer. You can get a copy today by clicking on the title or the book image. Also, you can learn more about Tricia and her other books at www.triciagoyer.com.

Last but not least, the kind folks at Multnomah have sent me a second copy of Blue Like Play Dough to give away. Just leave a comment on this post telling me if you a) make your own play dough, b) buy it, or c) have banned the stuff from your home.

Comments will close August 7 and the winner will be selected randomly.

Checking In at the End of July

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:26:00 +0000

Hi Everyone!!

Wow! I can't believe it's been 3 weeks since I declared my bloggy break. The summer is flying by!! I'm still not officially back. I just wanted to drop in a let you know what we've been up to around here.

July zipped by with:

4th of July Fireworks at the Beach,
letterboxing with friends,
Mia's Backward Birthday Party (which was a ton of fun!),
a Rheumatologist appointment for me (discovered she doesn't take the new insurance so I'm going to have to switch doctors after 6 years),
vacation in Maine for 4.5 days (more on this later once my film is developed),
3 year old friend's birthday party at a park (lots of fun!),
Mom's Night Out with my friend Amy in which we stayed at IHOP until 2:45 AM!!!
And Last But Not Least: My Mom Arrives FRIDAY night!!

My word! No wonder I'm so tired! We've been very social this month!!

I've also read more books this month, both with the kids and for myself. Can't say that I've gotten anywhere on starting a new routine for us or getting my house clean but I keep hoping.

I have been keeping up with my Google Reader though not commenting as much. Just today I brutally culled through my Reader. There are so many great blogs out there but my time is limited so I really need to restrict how many I'm reading.

Anyway. Just wanted to say hi! I'll be back soon with a book review and some vacation posts.

Enjoy the ending of your summer!!

Busy, busy, dreadfully busy...

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 01:33:00 +0000

We have been busy this summer. I'm not sure what we've been doing exactly. But we've been doing a lot of it. :)

June went by in a blur! Here are some highlights (each of which I intended to blog about but it's just not going to happen):

free ice cream at Friendly's Restaurant,
scored big time at a Used Curriculum sale,
had lunch with Daddy at his office,
painted Ellie's room,
attended a meeting about the Home School Co-op we will participate in this fall.

July is gearing up to be just as busy! Already we have watched fireworks Friday, July 3 from a nearby beach (see pics of Ben & family), and celebrated the 4th by letterboxing (see pic of Daddys & kids) and picnicing at Beavertail Lighthouse with our friends A2M3.

As I write we are looking forward to:

Celebrating our friend, Mia's 4th birthday with a Backwards Party,
Going to Maine for a mini-vacation,
Attending a tour of our local library,
Painting the boys' room.

That's just JULY!!

My August calendar includes:

A short visit from my mom,Pediatrician appointment for Sam & Ellie,
A Zoo members night,
A visit from my brother, sis-in-law and niece,
Working on our half bathroom and kitchen,
Ellie's 3rd birthday party!

Whew!! No wondering I'm feeling tired!!

Added to all of this is caring for 4 children, a home, a husband and me. Contrary to popular opinion, I do not have my act together all the time. In fact, right now I have laundry in the washer, clean laundry in a basket for several days, dishes in my sink, and piles of stuff everywhere. I have no idea what we will be eating next week.

Basically, my home and family are in chaos. And that's because of me. I'm in chaos. Before this summer is over I need to evaluate and implement some new priorities around here. Or maybe I just need to make my behavior line up with what I say my priorities are.

Regardless, I need to clear my plate of some good things that are distracting me from God's best. For now that's blogging, FaceBook, and Twitter. So, I am officially taking the rest of the summer off from all things computer.

I have a couple of book review commitments that I'll be blogging about and I may hop on here to post vacation pictures, but beyond that I'm taking a break for the rest of the summer.

I'm not unplugging from email, so feel free to drop me a note when you think of me!

See you in Autumn!

Ps. Can you name the video I took the title from?

A CD Review

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 19:49:00 +0000

The ladies at One2One Network sent me a CD to review a month ago. Life being as it is, I'm just now making it to write the review.

Bible Belt by Diane Birch is bluesy-jazz-lounge type music. It's not something I would be drawn to purchase on my own or listen to on a regular basis. But, I think it would make a nice background CD for a grown-up dinner party.

Oh, and it is NOT a Christian music CD (don't let the title fool you).

How's that for a pitiful review? {laughing}

Here's Diane's bio quote:

For singer-songwriter Diane Birch, music was a refuge. Although Diane was born in Michigan, her childhood was spent on the move as the daughter of a preacher, living between Zimbabwe, South Africa and Australia, before her parents finally settled in Portland, Oregon. When she was in her early teens, Diane absorbed a unique and cosmopolitan perspective on life that shines through her music and makes a simple categorization of it impossible.

The result? Diane Birch sounds like an old favorite, with all the sparkle and magic of a breakthrough talent. People says she sounds like a combination of early Carole King, Linda Ronstadt and Stevie Nicks, with a little Joss Stone and Cat Power mixed in. Bible Belt is only her first record, but it’s one of the most accomplished albums you’ll hear all year. From the opening track “Fire Escape” to the closing “Magic View,” Diane’s stunning voice is mesmerizing.

Written entirely by Diane, Bible Belt was recorded in New York City and New Orleans with an impressive team of Grammy-winning producers: S-Curve Records founder Steve Greenberg, soul legend Betty Wright and Mike Mangini, in their first project together since producing Joss Stone’s first albums.

I have other feelings about the negativity implied towards Diane's "conservative" and "strict religious" upbringing but I don't seem to be able to process them well into words so I'll keep it to myself.

One final tidbit - my husband lived in Zimbabwe during his teen years while his dad taught at a seminary there. Joel reminisces fondly about those years. We hope to one day take our children to Zimbabwe and see part of the world Daddy grew up in.

Books, Layoffs, Paint and Robins!!

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 20:05:00 +0000

I have a blogging plan for this week but it doesn't look like any of the posts are going to make it from my head to my computer. So I'm resorting to a random list.

1. We are enjoying listening to baby sparrows living in a birdhouse Joel and the kids made for our backyard. We've watched the parents all spring and wondered if there would be any babies. They are up too high for us to see into the birdhouse but we can definitely hear their demanding little peeps!

2. While on the subject of birds, so far this spring we have watched a Baltimore Oriole, Cardinal, Blue Jay, and numerous Sparrows and Starlings in our backyard. We've even watched several Robins CATCH AND EAT worms!! Gross, but really cool!! It's been fun to learn the names for these birds and their different characteristics as they visit our little backyard.

3. Saturday I attended a used curriculum sale sponsored by Rhode Island Guild of Home Teachers. I spent $102 and bought OVER 40 items!!! Needless to say I am very excited! And so are my kids.

4. Can you guess what we're doing this weekend? It only took 4 years for Joel to lift the ban! I'm afraid when we're done he will reinstate the ban again.

5. I recently shared that Joel's entire team at work was absorbed into their client company (Company C). Well, last week he was told that starting mid-July there will be lay-offs (not the official words but that's what they meant) in the new company and Joel's team is on the chopping block. I won't bore you with complicated details but it looks like those years of service are going to become really important as they are used to determine severance packages!!

6. This week my brother, his wife and daughter made plans to come to New England for vacation in August!! We are excited to meet my niece, Addi, who will be about 17 months old. We are also excited to introduce them to Samuel!!

I'd better end this random list and get supper cooked. Don't forget to link up your Family Fun Friday posts!! My post this week will be about something cold, yummy and FREE!!!

Family Fun Friday - Books & Field Trips

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 04:01:00 +0000

Welcome to Family Fun Friday: THE place to share fun and frugal ideas for family activities. Please read the Guidelines and share your ideas with us!!

This week's topic: Books and Field Trips!!

Or as they are calling it at 5 Minutes for Books - 'Book Trips!'

What is a 'Book Trip?'

Any family field trip inspired by or related to a book.

How does it work?

There are a couple of different ways you can approach this Family Fun Activity. You can plan a trip or outing and then read books related to what you will experience on the trip. I found this technique VERY helpful in reinforcing what my kids learned during a trip to Mystic Aquarium last fall.

Or you can read a book and plan a trip based on it's contents. Take The Box Car Children as an example. Visit the museum about the original author in eastern Connecticut. Or take a ride on a real train. Or ride a Ferris Wheel like they do in The Amusement Park Mystery. The ideas are endless!!

I love combining books and outings so much that I suggested Book Field Trips to the ladies of 5 Minutes for Books when they asked for Carnival theme suggestions way back in January. Little did I know they would use the idea for their July Children's Classics Carnival!!

You might say I'm feeling a little pressured to participate next month! But I know my family. If I don't plan something soon July will come and we won't have taken any 'Book Trips' (love that name, by the way!!).

Here are some of my Book Trip ideas for this summer:

Little Men by Lousia May Alcott (The Orchard House)
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey (Sculptures in Boston)
Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey (Blueberry picking)

Do you have any picture or chapter book suggestions for any of the following field trips?

Strawberry Picking
4th of July, Independence Day, Fireworks
Going to the Beach.
Fort Knox

Do you take Book Trips? If so, which was your favorite?

Also, please leave the link to your Family Fun Friday post in Mr. Linky!

Arm & Hammer Products Review

Stephaniesmommybrain@gmail.com (Stephanie's Mommy Brain) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:25:00 +0000

I recently had the opportunity to review a variety of Arm & Hammer products.

I am very familiar with Arm & Hammer baking soda. In fact, I can't remember a time that my Mom and Grandma DIDN'T have a box of baking soda in their freezers and refrigerators.

Through the years I've used baking soda for bee stings, baking biscuits, and occasionally to clean with, but this was my first experience with Arm & Hammer's cleaning products.

First, I tried the Arm & Hammer Essentials Perfume Free Laundry Detergent. The description of this product uses words like "gentle," "biodegradable," and "safe for septic systems."

I confess I was skeptical that it would get my laundry clean. Remember, I have 3 very active children who end most days coated in dirt. And 2 of those children are boys - little boys who leave their clothes with the unique scent of dirt and boy sweat!

I was pleasantly surprised that Arm & Hammer Essentials Laundry Detergent not only cleaned the dirt out of my kids clothes, it also left them smelling clean!

Then I tried Arm & Hammer Essentials Cleaner & Degreaser. I guess I'm just a natural skeptic because words like "smear-free" and "fresh scent" made me wonder if this product would live up to its description.

It did! I now keep the Cleaner & Degreaser under my sink to clean my stove top and counters.

You should know that every Sunday night is pancakes and sausage night at my house. Sausage. It splatters grease everywhere. And I have a tendency to let the splatters sit for a day (or 10).

So I put the Cleaner & Degreaser to an intense stove top test. I removed all my grates (I have a gas stove) and sprayed it down. The gunk wiped right off with a paper towel!!

AND it really does have a "light, fresh scent." There's no harsh chemical smell in my kitchen after I clean my counters. I love that!

Now, y'all know I am all about frugal living and saving money, so I feel the need to tell you, I have no idea how much these products cost (remember, mine came for review).

But, I do know that if you go here and sign up to receive future coupons you will immediately be able to print a $1 off coupon for the Cleaner & Degreaser. I love a good coupon!

In addition to the Cleaner & Degreaser and Detergent, I also received 2 regular boxes and 2 cannisters of Arm & Hammer baking soda. That means I have a whole lot of baking soda to use!! So, I need some ideas and tips (other than baking biscuits. I have that one covered!) for ways to use it up.

So, PLEASE share your favorite tips for using baking soda?