The mornings are cold and frosty, the colorful leaves are starting to drop, and Christmas decorations are already in stores…
Happy November!
Although we don’t go crazy with holiday parties, there are so many fun “extras” this time of year, so our schedule is usually more full than normal.
This year, we have the extra excitement of celebrating Nora’s 10th birthday — yes TEN! — and Dave’s 40th birthday in the midst of all our other festivities!
I still remember taking this picture so many years ago — Nora loved that little yellow chair!
As the years continue to slip on by, I’m so grateful for the time we have together as a family.
One of my favorite things about Dave’s teaching schedule is that he’s almost always home whenever the kids are home — including Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks.
There are certainly some not-so-awesome things about the life of a teacher, but the fact that he never needs to “save” vacation days for the end of the year or worry about taking time off during the holiday season is a big perk (even if we’re just planning to stay home)!
FAVORITE MOMENT = Fall Fest
Over the weekend, our church participated in a local “Fall Fest / Trunk or Treat” with the community library.
The weather was a bit dreary, but the night turned out to be a huge success and we all had a bunch of fun. I’m so thankful for our small church community and how much they love on our kids.
In case you can’t tell, Nora dressed up as a Whoopie Cushion, Simon and James were rival football players, and Clara was a cow.
Apparently, I donated our plastic pumpkins after last year — we made do with reusable produce bags for our candy. They worked out just fine (and I like them for produce too.)
FAVORITE ROUTINE = Family Point System
A while back, I realized that our children (like most of us) were more motivated by positive consequences than negative consequences.
So Dave and I implemented a “point system” that offers dozens of opportunities for the kids to earn points each day.
They continue to accumulate daily points and then every 2 weeks they can “cash in” their points for a variety of prizes, candy, and other special treats.
Yes, it means extra work on my part to remember to dole out the points. Yes, it means extra tchotchkes and trinkets cluttering up their bedrooms. Yes, it means extra expense buying candy and prizes.
BUT… it works so well!
The kids love finding ways to earn more points and they very regularly do many of the things we had to nag them about before, now without even being asked.
Some of the things on our points list are:
- make your bed
- eat the meal without complaining about any of the food
- put all dirty laundry in basket every night
- do homework
- practice piano
- pratice Bible memory
- take a quick shower (they were getting SO long)
- read for 20 minutes
- be extra helpful and encouraging (sort of subjective — but it works)
- have a positive attitude in the morning (even if you’re tired)
- empty your backpack immediately after school
- obey / help / listen the first time
- do an extra chore
When it’s time to cash in their points, I have a few different boxes filled with prizes at different point levels (5, 10, 25, 50). I break out the boxes, they “shop till they drop” and it’s a happy, happy day!
Another perk to our points system is that they learn basic math and shopping skills as they need to figure out how to divvy up their points to get what they want (sometimes they don’t have enough).
So far, the points system has been a very positive addition to our household and it’s one of my favorite things.
I know the kids love it too because when I asked what they wanted for Christmas, they all asked for more points! We had already told the kids we were going to scale back on gifts this year, but I said they could all have 100 extra points — they were thrilled!
RELATED READING: Why I don’t stress about kids and chores.
PAST FAVORITE = Chunkies Paint Sticks
It’s been a few years since I shared how much we love the Chunkies Paint Sticks — and since Christmas is coming up, I thought I would re-share them (especially since my kids still use them on a weekly basis).
The Chunkies Paint Sticks are SO much brighter and more vibrant than markers, and SO much less messy than actual paint.
Plus, they are extremely easy for little hands… and really fun for bigger hands too!
They come in a variety of colors and “styles” (metallic, bold, pastel, classic, etc.) We love them all!
RELATED READING: My Favorite Non-Messy Activities for Toddlers
FAVORITE CLOTHING = Fleece Lined Leggings
I wear leggings/yoga pants (whatever you want to call them) constantly around the house… and my favorite pair for winter is the fleece-lined ones I purchased years ago from ThredUp (an online used clothing store).
A DISCOUNT: New customers can get $10 off your ThredUp purchase.
The leggings are so soft, warm, and comfortable, and they’ve held up marvelously after hundreds of washings (and you know I don’t take the time to line-dry them either!)
The exact leggings I have are currently available on Amazon for as low as $10 (with free Prime shipping)… so if you’re in the market for amazingly comfortable leggings, I’d recommend giving these a try. They come in a whole bunch of color options too!
FAVORITE BOOKS = Franklin
Ever since Nora was a baby, I’ve enjoyed reading the Franklin books to my toddlers and preschoolers. Clara is now in the thick of her obsession with Franklin… and it’s not uncommon for the boys to curl up next to us when I’m reading these books to her.
Despite my hesitation to actually BUY books, we now have quite a collection of our own Franklin books, thanks to various thrift stores..
If you’re looking for a great Christmas gift for someone age 2-7, I’d suggest this collection of 8 Franklin stories in one hardcover book.
GET THE BOOKS: Here’s a big set on Amazon
FAVORITE MEDIA = Securly
At our children’s school, they get a school-issued email account in 4th grade — and just like that, their entry into the online world begins.
Their access to the internet is still very limited and it’s all done through a specific child-friendly educational search engine.
However, I still like to know what’s going on in Nora’s online world… which is why I’m so thrilled our school uses Securly as a way for parents to see virtually everything our kiddos are doing online each week.
Not only can parents set very strict “rules” as to how our kids can and can’t spend their time online, but we can also completely block as many website URLs or specific categories of URLs as we want.
Parents also get daily updates on their children’s search history via the free App… and weekly emails containing every single picture, video, article, etc. our children have viewed over the past week.
If they try to search for anything deemed inappropriate, the school and parents are notified immediately.
I’ve been super impressed with Securly so far, and I hope our school continues to use it!
RELATED READING: A Balanced Approach to Children and Screens
FAVORITE RECIPE = No-Fail Roasted Turkey!
If you’ve never roasted a whole turkey before, I beg you to buy one this month and give it a try using my no-fail roasting tips (even if you’re not hosting Thanksgiving dinner at your house).
I make 3 – 4 turkeys every year, roasting them this way each time, and then using the extra meat and homemade bone broth for soups, stews, casseroles, etc. all year long.
The finished bird is not necessarily Pinterest-worthy in apperance, but it is amazingly juicy and full of flavor with almost zero effort or mess!
Note: Make sure you buy the oven bags that are big enough for a turkey to assure your bird will fit inside.
RELATED READING: Making The Most out of a Whole Turkey.
FAVORITE QUOTE:
“People have a way of becoming what you encourage them to be — not what you nag them to be.” ~ Max Lucado
I recently read “How Happiness Happens” (one of Max Lucado’s many great reads) and this quote stuck with me.
It’s an excellent reminder for anyone in any type of relationship — but especially for parents. How often don’t we nag at our children’s bad behavior instead of encouraging their good behavior?
I suppose this is what I’m trying to do with the points chart I mentioned above… reward positive behavior instead of only punishing bad behavior.
I imagine this would have quite a positive effect in the workplace and the classroom too!
What could you do TODAY to encourage someone instead of nag them?
FAVORITE ARCHIVED POST = How to Simplify Holiday Meals
I’ve hosted my fair share of large gatherings, birthday parties, and holidays meals and I have a few tips and tricks to simplify the process.
If you’re hosting anything this holiday season, I’d love to help you simplify and de-stress the prep work and have more time to enjoy your guests and participate in seasonal activities.
Read the full posts here.
That’s all for me this month. 😆
If you’re interested, you can scroll through ALL my Favorite Things posts HERE… and feel free to share your favorites in the comments below!
Becky says
I bought the chunky paint sticks this year! Thanks for the idea.
Julia Hutson says
Hi Andrea. I love how you are a breath of fresh air. It always seems overwhelming, then You put it in simple terms “for me”. Thank you.
sofia says
Hello, I’ve been reading tour blog for many years and it’s a pleasure to have been watching your family growing.I am curious because I have been looking into buying a food dehydrator, can you please tell us about your exepirience with food dehydrators. thanks from the other side of the ocean
Andrea says
Thanks so much for your long-time readership!
I rarely use a dehydrator these days, but this is the one I have (and I like it).
Izabela says
I love the points idea. Can you write more details about it. I would like to implement one in my family as well. How do you count points? How many points needs to get a prize?
Andrea says
Thanks Izabela!
There really aren’t any rules for the points chart — just give points for the behavior you want to encourage and then choose prizes (candy, matchbox cars, craft supplies, little trinkets, nail polish, games, etc.) that your kids would like. The value of the points and prizes isn’t really as important as the training behavior.
Izabela says
Ok Thank you It realy works for us Kids love this points idea 🙂 they ask what can do to make more points 🙂
Andrea says
i love this! our kids are the same way — always asking for more ways to earn points!
Allison says
Hi Andrea! I love the points list! Those are all the same sticking points for my family too. The kids CAN do the things on your list, but I am constantly reminding them and it’s annoying for me and them! I would love to implement this at our house too. Did you find a printable somewhere online or did you make it yourself? Could you provide a link if you used another site? Thanks!
Andrea says
Hi Alison,
Sorry for the delay — I just made the points chart as a Google Doc (excel) It was extremely easy to quickly customize and now I can continue to add or remove things as necessary!
Linda says
Our kids loved Franklin books too – or maybe I was the one that loved them? Our youngest is 5, but I think some of these books will always be in my library!
Chris says
Happy happy birthday to Nora and Dave!
Andrea says
Thanks Chris — I’ll pass your birthday wishes along to Nora and Dave!
Leanne says
I love reading your updates….and every time you post your favorite things, I find a favorite thing as well!! thank you for maintaining this sweet place on the internet!!
Andrea says
Thanks Leanne — I’m happy to provide you with a few more favorites 🙂
LEANNE HEERN says
I would love that! especially, now that I teach preschool… I need some good favorites for 4-5 year olds and just basic organization tips!!!
Debbie says
The points idea is awesome! I love how they can shop for what they want from the boxes using their points.
Andrea says
yes, the point system has worked well for us. They LOVE that they get to pick their own thing and spend lots of time debatin! 🙂
Fran says
I’ve been using oven bags forever….for chicken even pot roast….they are amazing….love your blog you are truly wise beyond your years….I tell everyone I know how I learned from you how to shred chicken with a hand mixer or large mixer…..can’t say it enough GENIUS ….❤️
Andrea says
haha — I love this! and yes, it’s the BEST way to shred chicken or turkey!
Holly S says
I’m really glad to see your leggings included. I see this brand quite often at my TJMaxx/Marshalls stores here in my town and always wondered if they would be a brand to try.
Andrea says
I’m a huge fan (and I’m picky about leggings). Hopefully you can get a deal on a pair this winter!
Kim says
It was either right before or right after Nora’s birth that I found your blog. I think there is only one or two others that I have followed that long. Andrea, there is something so “real” and appealing about the topics you cover that have kept me coming back.
I love seeing your beautiful children grow up. James’ family picture is priceless! I am starting to see a resemblance between Nora and Clara. (That may be obvious to others but I have always been slow to see that sort of thing.)
Hearing that Dave is turning 40 reminds me that you guys have lived your life with wisdom beyond your years.
PS I am always amazed that your children don’t “flip out” when you say gifts will be cut back. Most kids, mine included years ago, just seem to go in the opposite direction. You have done well with this.
Andrea says
Yes Kim — just a faithful reader. I appreciate it so much!
Also, our children make out just fine at Christmas — due to very generous grandparents, aunts, and uncles. And now that we’re doing the point system, they get to “buy” their own trinkets and toys every month… so I think they just realize that they really don’t NEED anything and are fine with less from us. I’m already thinking of some fun activities and events we can do instead of opening lots of gifts. We’ll see… they might change their tune a bit once we get closer to Christmas and all their friends are opening piles of gifts 🙂
Paulette says
Ditto on your comment, Kim. Andrea, your tips over the years have been so helpful and there hasn’t been one recipe I’ve tried from your recipe box that hasn’t been a hit around our house. I don’t know why, but it’s a comfort to read your blog! I talk about you as if we’re friends and I guess we are from a distance, except you give to the relationship and I pretty much take. I’m also a subscriber since before Nora was born and it’s been pure pleasure to watch your kiddos grow. Thank you for sharing your life with us!
Andrea says
Thanks so much Paulette! Your long-time readership and many MANY comments makes me feel like I know you a little bit too 🙂
Carol says
Andrea, you have so much in this newsletter that I am going to use. I am hosting our family Christmas dinner this year and the turkey will be done the day before. This is something I have not thought of but Thank you for the advise.
I am looking at the pants also. It gets very cold in Ontario, Canada and they will be great even under a pair of jeans on extra cold days.
The picture James made is PRICELESS and needs to be in a frame. I love it very much.
The books you have recommended are now on my list. I have 4 great grandchildren and think I will get some of the Franklin books for the younger 3.
Andrea says
Thanks — these posts are usually packed full. I often have to “cut” some items because I don’t want them to be too overwhelming!
And yes, definitely try making the turkey ahead of time — it will save SO much mess and stress on the day of your event (no worrying about an undercooked bird when all the rest of the food is ready to go!)
I already have a picture of James’ artwork and it will end up in the family photo book and his photo book (but I might just have to frame it too!) So sweet!
Hope you and your great grandkids enjoy the Franklin books!
JJ says
Happy 10th to Nora and 40th to Dave!!! Nora has one of the best costumes!!! My kids would love it. Everyone looks like they were having fun. Your resourcefulness never ends! I put those produce bags in my Amazon cart. How often do you wash yours?
Current favorites:
After dinner walks(for me, Baby, and husband); kiddos ride their bike.
Electric kettle: we’ve had one for years(Oster brand), and it helps when following recipes where liquids need heated to a certain temp. We are tea drinkers–lots of good use!
Overnight steel cut oatmeal(following instructions on container minus the yogurt). I was not sure how I would like it. I eat it cold right from the fridge with pecans and blueberries added. I don’t even add sugar. It is very filling and delicious.
YouVersion Bible app(free)–so many Bible studies to choose from. You can search by category, author, etc. You can do the studies as an individual or can invite friends. I’ve done them both ways. The group discussions are great, because you can do the Bible study any time that day and leave a comment. There are also kids’ devotions we have done that were really good. You can use it to read the Bible, too. There are several versions to choose from and several languages. You can highlight, take notes, and bookmark with easy access to all of it.
Skillmatics Educational Game: Boredom Buster | Reusable Activity Mats with Dry Erase Marker | Gifts, Travel Toy & Learning Tool for Ages 3-6–It
It comes with a dry erase marker named Skilly Billy. and an eraser cloth. My just turned 6 yead old really likes these for when his older siblings still have school work, but he is finished.
Andrea says
The produce bags are great — I get asked about them almost every time I’m at the store. I probably don’t wash them as much as I should — but they do wash up really easily.
Thanks for sharing your favorites — I’ve been looking into getting an electric kettle (I’m trying really hard to like tea!). I found one on Facebook Marketplace but it was too far away to justify the savings. I’ll keep looking.
JoDi says
It’s nice to see that Franklin is still around delighting children! I used to read Franklin books to my son ages ago.
Can’t believe Miss Nora is 10!!!
Andrea says
oh yes, Franklin is going strong. They even have a handful of TV episodes that are pretty cute (with a really catching tune at the beginning!)
Ashley says
Andrea, I love the points system! I love that you pointed out “good and bad consequences”. We allow our kids to earn commission for jobs done around the house, but they wouldn’t get paid for any of the things on your list because they’re considered part of being a member of our home. We just may have to implement this to help with some habit training ❤️
Andrea says
I actually thought of all your boys when I mentioned the point system 🙂
I guess, in a way, our kids are getting paid — just with toys and candy that they get to choose… but you’re right, it’s not actual cash.
So far, it’s been really great for our kids!
Laura says
I have a question on reheating the turkey in the crockpot. If I use the broth in the bag to make gravy, what do I use in the crockpot with the turkey? Do you use the bone broth you made? Also, how much broth do you use? Do you cover the turkey? These might be silly questions but I have some guests that can be a little critical!!
Andrea says
Good questions — I should probably elaborate on that post a bit.
In my experience, I get a TON of juice from my turkeys, so once I get all the turkey off the bones and into the slow cooker, I pour some of the juice over and then add some broth (or even water) that I already have in the house to cover the turkey. However, I do save a good amount of the juice to make gravy (we love gravy). So I guess if you don’t already have broth in the fridge/freezer, you’d want to have some on hand — unless you don’t plan to make gravy, then you might have enough juices from the turkey itself.
Thanks for asking as others might be wondering too!
Julie says
The leggings look so comfy and cozy. How are they on the “see through scale”? I regularly see girls/teens/ladies of all sizes and shapes that wear leggings and you can see through their backside while they are walking around. It is so much worse when they are bent over. I am mortified for them so much so that I have not attempted to wear leggings myself. My daughter bought be a pair of fur lined ones from Bed Bath & Beyond a few years ago that I wear under a long sweatshirt for travel and I am always asking my hubby to make sure they aren’t see through. He is always glad to oblige 😉
Andrea says
Hi Julie,
My leggings are super thick and not see-through at ALL. I’ve had mine for many years and wash them weekly and they are still in fantastic condition (super soft, not pilly, not see-through, not stretched out).
I’m honestly not a huge fan of wearing leggings in public unless I have a long shirt or coat on. I mostly just wear them around the house, but these leggings are definitely acceptable for out in public!
michelle says
I haven’t read your posts or emails in a while, but love that you do the point system rewards with your kids. I did this with my kids when they were little and a positive reinforcement is SO much better than a negative. My kids are now 24, 22 & 19 and I feel that this is one memory that will always be there and hopefully they will do this with my future grandchildren. ~~~ Just had to share 🙂
Andrea says
Hi Michelle — welcome back 🙂
Thanks for your kind and encouraging words. I’m glad your family has fond memories of the “point system” too. We have another prize day coming up on Saturday and the kids are already talking about how they might use their points and what they can buy!!
Kellie says
Andrea this was a fantastic article! Loved your Turkey recipe (def trying that later this month), I bought some leggings, and I’ll be implementing the points system w my boys! Also I can’t believe that Nora is 10 – I’ve been following you since before she was born and it really has flown by. You’ve done a great job, Mama!
Andrea says
yes, the turkey recipe is so good and easy! I just ordered more turkey bags on Amazon yesterday… so I’m all ready to go.
And yes, Nora will be 10 in 3 weeks — crazy! Thanks for your long-time readership. You’re the best!
Oh, and enjoy your leggings!