The Ameri Brit Mom

Toddler Chore Chart

As the final days of her second year are coming to a close I am working with my daughter on independence. It’s been a bittersweet experience. She has always been a clingy child who has barely allowed me to shower or go to the bathroom alone since her days of walking began at ten months of age. So in some ways this exercise of independence seems a little overdue. At the same time realizing that she can complete certain things without my assistance is more of a reminder to me that my role as her mother is changing. It isn’t a bad change, but things are different from when she was a dependent baby. I’m learning to let go and allow her opportunities to flourish on her own. Things I’ve always done for or with her I’m teaching her to do for herself. This is what led me to creating her first ever chore chart. The purpose of this chore chart is to instill in her the abilities and desire to accomplish necessary tasks while being able to track her progress and success. Here is a chronicle of the creation of her first ever chore chart:

Supplies: a dollar store clipboard, 1 bag of clothespins, 1 8.5×11″ sheet of paper, water color paints, paint brush, ruler, and a Sharpie marker

While Arianna was napping one day I took some time to paint and decorate the paper in her favorite colors: teal and purple. Once the paper dried I used the ruler and Sharpie to outline a chart table for the chores. My husband and I decided in advance on six activities for her to complete daily. I wrote out each task in plain letters that she can use in her exploration of words later on. Additionally, I used a rough picture of each job so that even though she can’t read yet she can identify each tasks by a photo. They are all age appropriate tasks which she can accomplish without assistance. Below the list of daily chores I made a block for each day of the week with the final block representing a reward which we decided would be money (A quarter for each day she completes all of her chores. That may seem cheap, but we are also hoping that it will lead to further lessons on saving and spending.)

When I introduced this concept and chart to my daughter she was extremely excited. She immediately rushed off to complete her jobs, as she calls them. Within a couple of hours of unveiling her chore chart she had completed day #1 successfully. It was really nice to have some help in tidying the house and a few extra moments to take care of myself. On day #2 I picked her up from her sitter and the moment we arrived home she was ready to get to work on her jobs. We are three days in and all three days have been successful and she is genuinely enjoying taking on this independence. I would recommend this idea for anyone with a toddler and especially for those who are working to grow their child’s independence. I’ve read quite a bit in the blog’o’sphere about the benefits of giving children responsibilities in the home and I’m already very pleased with the outcomes of this Toddler Chore Chart.

On Being a Writer: Promote

I am joining a group of writers who are linking-up twice a week through the month of September to discuss some of the foundational ideas in writing. The topics for this link-up come from the book On Being a Writer by Ann Kroeker and Charity Singleton Craig. This link-up is being hosted by Kate Motaung on her blog entitled Heading Home. Today’s topic is Promote:

The practice of promoting my own writing is not a natural one for me. There are some areas of my life where I have no problem sharing what I’m doing or have done, but when it comes to writing for some reason it has been a struggle. For the longest time my writings were private. I saw them as intimate thoughts that were between myself, God, and a sheet of paper. I’m still not an expert on promoting my own writing, but I’ve learned to open up and accept praise or criticism.

Promoting your writing looks differently from author to author. A lot of my promoting takes place in every day conversation because many of my blog followers are people who know me in real life. However, I have gained a large following of people who do not know me let alone live on the same continent as I do. Some of those followers of my blog stumbled upon my blog by chance and others found me through some of my means of promotion. They may have found a tag on my writing that interested them or used a specific phrase in a search engine which led them to me. I also like to comment on other blogs regularly to build community and that ends up connecting people with my blog as well.

I’m focusing on my blog on this post because it is the only medium of my writing where I have any experience in promoting. My prayer is that one day I could come back to this post and discuss the promotion process for a novel, but I’m not ready for that quite yet.

How do you promote your writing? What are your struggles with self-promotion?

A Week Before Her Birthday

Early September is an emotional time for me. Three years ago on September 12th I gave birth to our beautiful daughter. Every year as her birthday approaches I am struck with flashbacks to Birthdays of the Past and the early days of her life. I get a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes when I think about the days when I used to swaddle her. I reminisce about how quickly our all-day napping sessions came and went. I think back to fixing bottles, blending her pureed meals, and teaching her to roll over. Her first three years have flown by so quickly.

There isn’t a moment when I don’t feel blessed to be her mother. We are in the middle of the toddler years and some days are harder than others, but in the thick of it all September hits and I’m blown away about how quickly each year of her life comes and goes. I’m not overcome with anxiety about getting a perfect gift or planning a party. I’m just overwhelmed with love. It’s crazy to believe that this time three years ago that we had not yet met our bundle of joy.

So as the mornings grow foggy and the nights are sprinkled with frost I remember those first days as a mother and I smile. Nothing in life has been like the roller coaster of motherhood, but I wouldn’t exchange a second for any other phase of life. During this time I’ve learned so much and I’ve enjoyed each smile, each step, and each conversation.

3 years ago at the baby shower in early September

September 12, 2012

early October 2012

The week of her third birthday (September 2015)

Five Minute Friday: Yes

This week the topic for the Five Minute Friday link-up post is yes. What is a link-up? Essentially a link-up is when you join other bloggers and write on a similar topic. You share your blog posts with one another and begin conversations via a host site. You can head over to Kate Motaung’s page to check out other entries from inspired bloggers. Here’s my five minutes of uninterrupted, unedited writing on this week’s topic:

Yes! The final bell has sounded and the last of the ninth grade stragglers have ventured out the doorway of my classroom. It’s Friday afternoon on the cusp of a three-day weekend. I couldn’t think of a more fitting time for an extended weekend than this one. I’ve been going hard for three solid weeks now with very little rest and downtime. I love my job immensely, but the time has come for things to slow down. I’m looking forward to a weekend of family time at home.

I’ll be giving my home some much needing TLC. It’s been neglected this week as we’ve gone from event to event. I am anticipating a reunion with my favorite writing spot and getting some productive writing done this weekend. I’m also very enthused to help my dear friend as she moves into her newly-built home. Additionally, I’ll be battling the natural inclination to go cross-eyed while grading the first essays of the new school year. Oh, and did I mention this is the last weekend before my daughter’s birthday to get all of the last-minute things accomplished?

Okay, so maybe it won’t be the most relaxing weekend. I’ve whittled away a to-do list. But for tonight, I will resign myself to my humble abode with my little family. It may take will power, but I will forego the vacuuming and organizing and give myself this Friday evening to relax. It’s finally the weekend!

What have you planned for this extended weekend?

On Being a Writer: Send

I am currently taking part in a link-up that will be posted twice a week for a little over a month discussing ideas from the book On Being a Writer by Ann Kroeker and Charity Singleton Craig. To visit the link-up pop on over to Kate Motaung’s page, Heading Home, and check out other bloggers’ writings on a similar topic.

Today’s topic is Send:

It takes a lot of courage to send forth your writing to publications. Until recently the idea of taking a private writing piece of my own and handing it over to be scrutinized by a total stranger completely terrified me. But the more I write the more confident I am in my ability and in the chance that one day I will find a piece of my work published.

I have set a personal goal to send out writing to five publishers a month which I discussed in my earlier post I Took the Leap of Faith. I’ve only been doing that for a few months at this point. So far, I have been unsuccessful, but I’m praying that one day the right piece will fall into the right hands and this life goal of mine will be realized.

I don’t take rejection personally. The hardest part about the submission process is having a piece of writing that fits the rigid requirements of the publishing companies you are sending to. Two publishers have responded to my submissions with some variation of “we really like your writing style, but we are looking for an article/story on a different topic.”

Some publishers are quick to give feedback while others may never respond. It does annoy me when my writing is returned without an explanation as to why it is not being used. A simple response like the one above satisfies my desire to know the purpose for my rejection.

As I eagerly anticipate the day when I receive that first acceptance letter or email, I have begun several opportunities to use my gifts on a smaller scale. I am a member of a writing team at my church which I discussed in more detail in my post Writing as a Ministry. My role consists of writing weekly discussions that my church uses during their weekly small group meetings. I’ve also done some editing and small projects for friends, colleagues, and blogging buddies. Additionally, I’ve been asked to lead and/or create devotional/discussion content for a ladies’ church group.

I continue to purse my goals despite the lack of publishing. I’m not content with where I am in my writing and I am constantly searching out ways to continue to improve. I’m learning the importance of writing daily and seeking out inspiration in the small things.

Please feel free to share a success story of yours in the comments below or to offer advice. That’s what today’s post is all about!

On Being a Writer: Write

The reason I have been blogging for six months now is to facilitate a more regular pattern of writing. When I have goals set for myself I am much more likely to complete what it is I want to accomplish. Also, when I have people holding me accountable for those goals then I feel even more responsible for making sure those tasks actually happen. With blogging I have sought out a way for me to routinely write and practice writing about a multitude of topics while you, my readers, hold me accountable.

There are many things about the craft of blogging that I have yet to perfect. I want to make it clear that I don’t always follow the guidelines I am about to list. Also, I’m sure that there is a better and more efficient process for blogging. This is just the process that I have found that works for me. I set out each week with a list of potential topics and ideas. Those ideas get plugged into a Blog Post Planner which I purchased from Plum Paper. I use this planner to track posting ideas, titles, where I am in the process of each post, and my blog statistics.

On an average week I aim to create six posts, but sometimes life keeps that from happening. I’ve never done fewer than three posts in a week, however. Each post begins with a fifteen to thirty minute session of getting all my thoughts and ideas out. This process is then followed by editing. After I’ve cut and pasted, removed, and added to my original writing I run everything by my editor (my husband). Almost every post gets reviewed by him. He has the permission to be a Grammar Nazi. He also helps me catch any missing information from the posts. So, if you see any glaring mistakes blame the hubby. (No, I’m kidding. Sometimes this step gets skipped and that’s usually when you see the mistakes)

One thing that helps me achieve my goal of six posts per week is the feature on WordPress (my blog platform) that allows me to schedule posts in the future. With this feature I am able to work on posts when time allows and I don’t have to feel pressure to actually create a post every day.

When I am able I like to finish each post a couple of days in advance so that I have ample time to revise and edit each post. This isn’t always the case, but during my organizational phases I could be almost a week ahead of schedule as far as revising and editing go,

I’ve learned that my writing is best when I am locked into a habit of writing regularly. Some days my posts are short and sweet, but they still count as progress for my skill. I enjoy spending time alone with my thoughts and getting ideas out in a timely manner.

How do you frame your blogging or writing process?

Reblog: You’re a Good Mom

I have been searching for articles to share every other weekend from bloggers that I follow and enjoy. This week I found an encouraging article by my friend, Autumn, at Welcome to My World. Her article is entitled, You’re a Good Mom.

As a mother of a toddler I can totally relate to Autumn on many levels. In this post she discusses a mother’s desire to be good, but all of the insecurities that keep us from feeling that way. For me, I struggle with a full-time job and all that it entails, friendships, housekeeping, and spending quality time with my family everyday. This article helped me to see that it’s okay to put family first. So what if my house is a mess 80% of the time? I’ve got a healthy, growing girl and that’s my first priority. It is nice to hear from others that you are doing a good job, but for me validation comes from knowing that I’ve done my best each day to be the mom that my little Arianna needs me to be.

Please check out Autumn’s blog post!

Five Minute Friday: Alone

This week the topic for the Five Minute Friday link-up post is alone. What is a link-up? Essentially a link-up is when you join other bloggers and write on a similar topic. You share your blog posts with one another and begin conversations via a host site. You can head over to Kate Motaung’s page to check out other entries from inspired bloggers. Here’s my five minutes of uninterrupted, unedited writing on this week’s topic:

I Do Not Know Alone (A poem)

Alone is a place I can never be,

Since the Spirit of God is always with me.

Alone is a word I do not know,

For my God is with me wherever I go.

At times it seems quiet,

Like His answers aren’t there.

Other times I feel broken,

And think life’s not fair.

But through it all He’s healing my pain,

As I cry out He whispers my name.

It’s hard to listen and talk all at once,

Sometimes the silence is all that he wants.

If I take time to notice I see once again,

When I think I’m alone He’s always a friend.

Who will never leave me even when it gets tough,

I’m never alone; My Savior’s enough.

We all need this reminder. When things get hard and we feel like no one could possibly understand or care about what we are going through there is always someone to turn to. If you feel like God doesn’t hear you or you can’t discern His voice and direction take some time to listen. Stop talking and let God speak to you. This is something I struggle with. I want instantaneous responses and I want them to sound a certain way. I anticipate God’s responses and when they don’t look or sound the way I expect that they should I feel like God isn’t there. Take some time to listen to his still, small voice. At times that voice is just a whisper, but a small voice can have a large impact. Remember: you are never alone.

On Being a Writer: Notice

This is my latest installment on the link-up On Being a Writer based on the book by Ann Kroeker and Charity Singleton Craig. Head over to Kate Motaung‘s page to join or read this link-up.

Today’s topic is Notice.

Why is it so hard to take the time to notice the beauty and inspiration around us? This is the hardest part about writing for me. I can generally get words flowing pretty quickly once I have a topic, but noticing the details in life that can become those topics is so difficult.

I struggle with this practice not only in my writing, but in everyday life. We all go through seasons where things get busy and hectic. We forget to slow down and appreciate every aspect of creation. That’s me right now. I’m hoping for story ideas or writing prompts to appear, but I’m not taking the time to slow down and notice the beauty and creativity around me. A sunset could lead to a poem. A toddler tantrum could lead to a blog post. A conversation with a friend could lead to a creative, Biblical piece of writing.

When we get so busy we miss out on a lot. We neglect to see the possibilities in our writing because we aren’t looking. If you ever feel like me and struggle with what to write take a step back and notice the world around you. Write down what you see. And go from there. Writing is so much more than words on a page. Writing is about seeing the potential in everything, big or small, to make an impact on the world around you. It’s about harnessing those ideas and giving them life. Take some time today to NOTICE.

My First Fix

Over the past couple of months I’ve heard a lot about StitchFix on other blogs and social media sites. After doing my research in the company seeking out any loophole I decided to give it a shot.

What is StitchFix?: StitchFix is an online personal stylist program. As the customer you begin by filling out a profile about yourself and your sizes on the StitchFix website. From this profile a team of stylists selects five unique pieces and sends them in the mail on a regular basis (the duration of which you can decide).

How does it work?: In order to receive your fix you must first complete a personal survey where you list details about your unique style and preferences and answer questions created to make your experience with StitchFix the best it can be. Next, you can schedule how often you’d like to receive your fix in the mail. I chose to not over commit to something I was unsure of so I chose the option of receiving my box once every other month.

How much does it cost?: There is a $20 stylist fee for each fix that ships to your home. That fee can be applied to any pieces that you decide to keep from that shipment. After that original $20 fee each time you only pay for what you want to purchase. If you choose to purchase all five pieces in the StitchFix box you receive a 25% off discount on your order.

What if I don’t like something?: The StitchFix company encourages you to try on every item. Anything that does not fit or that you don’t wish to purchase can be returned in a prepaid priority mail bag that is sent in each StitchFix at no cost to you. You have three days from the arrival of your box to complete the online checkout and resend any items you do not wish to keep. In order to checkout you must visit your account on their website and comment about each piece. If you choose not to keep something write why that piece was undesirable and that helps the stylists find better options in the future.

If you are interested in giving it a try yourself you can CLICK HERE to create your own account and begin filling out a profile. (Please use the hyperlink above as it helps me earn a little extra credit on my account as well. Thanks!)

What I found appealing about this particular company is that I had the power to communicate one-on-one with my stylist. I was able to request certain styles and I provided a link to my Pinterest board which gave my stylist more information about my personal style. She asked me questions, and we dialogued back and forth several times before she sent my first package.

My package arrived this Monday afternoon. I rushed home from work to find this beautiful and exciting package on my front porch:

As I began to unpack its contents my joy only increased. I received a card from my stylist which highlighted the pieces that she sent me as well as Styling Cards which showed multiple ways to wear each piece within the box.

Underneath all of the tips, cards, and receipts I found the clothing that the stylist picked especially for me. Here is a picture of each piece: (not everything fit me in the end so I’ll just show you the card for the pieces I did not purchase)

1. This cardigan was perfect for me. It is something that can easily dress up an outfit and be worn to school, but can also be paired with denim to create a casual look. I chose to purchase this piece because it is so versatile.

2. I absolutely, positively, 100% loved this sweater. It is an oversized style which is not something I own much of or would have picked for myself, but as soon as I put this on I fell in love. It’s another piece I can wear several different ways. The price was a little higher than I had hoped ($58), but I bit the bullet and purchased this one because I was so in love.

3. I had asked my stylist for a pair of patterned pants and she definitely delivered. The dilemma with the pants were that they did not fit. The pattern was flattering and adorable, but they didn’t quite fit me around the waist correctly. There was a lot of extra space in them and it ended up looking sloppy once I tried them on. This was disappointing, but at least I was able to send them back at no charge. I redid my measurements in my profile and asked my stylist to send another pair of a different size in my next StitchFix order. The sizing error was on my end NOT StitchFix’s.

4. When I got to the blouse I was astounded. Wow, does my stylist know me. In fact, she nailed it! The only problem: I actually have a top almost identical to this one that I bought last fall. Again, bummer, but at least this means that my stylist understands my preferences. I sent this blouse back, but appreciated the Styling Card which will help me when it comes to how to wear the top I already own.

5. Finally, I received a necklace by Zad: Melba Beaded Layered Necklace. I decided to pass on this necklace. It was cute and versatile, but I am actually drowning in jewelry and not really in need of another simple piece. If it had been more unique then I may have kept it.

So, my overall experience was great. I enjoyed seeing the styles and pieces that were selected for me. I did end up returning three of my five pieces, but probably would’ve kept the pants if they were in my size. All of the tips and blogs I’ve read online say that the experience only gets better the more that you use StitchFix, because the stylists take to heart the comments that you leave in the Checkout and they use those comments to select future pieces. I have chosen to continue with the company and I am looking forward to my next delivery in October. I would recommend StitchFix for anyone with a flexible budget, busy lifestyle that prevents them from being able to shop regularly, or the desire to makeover their wardrobe. For me, I can go through phases where I get stuck on certain styles and I decided to give it a chance in order to add some diversity for my closet. I love the features that allow communication between the customer and stylist. It made the experience a good one and one that I plan to repeat again.

If you have any specific questions about my experience ask away! I know many of my readers already have a service they use like StitchFix, but I strongly urge you to give this company a try. Once again, if you would like to check it out please CLICK HERE and use my link as referrals in this company can help to earn credit toward future orders.

The Ameri Brit Mom

*This post contain affiliate links. I may receive compensation as a result of this post.