Archive for the ‘Parenting 101’ Category

Bed Canopies for Every Bedroom Style: From Minimalist to Boho Chic

Sunday, September 27th, 2009

A bed canopy isn’t just a decorative piece; it’s a statement that adds charm, elegance, and a touch of personal style to any bedroom. Whether you’re aiming for a serene minimalist space or a vibrant boho retreat, a canopy can effortlessly transform your bedroom into a cozy sanctuary. In this guide, we’ll explore how to adapt bed canopies to various aesthetics, helping you find the perfect match for your design vision.
1. Minimalist Elegance: Less is More

In minimalist bedrooms, simplicity and functionality are key. To complement this aesthetic, choose a bed canopy that emphasizes clean lines and muted colors. Opt for sheer fabrics like gauze or chiffon in soft neutrals such as white, beige, or light grey.

Styling Tip: Go for a ceiling-mounted canopy that drapes elegantly around the bed without overpowering the room’s simplicity. Pair it with light wood or metal bed frames to maintain a sense of openness and tranquility. This subtle touch adds texture without disrupting the serene, uncluttered vibe.
2. Scandinavian Serenity: Cozy and Practical

Scandinavian design blends minimalism with coziness, focusing on natural elements and functionality. A canopy made of lightweight linen or cotton fits perfectly in this style, offering warmth and comfort without feeling heavy.

Styling Tip: Opt for soft, earthy tones like soft browns, whites, or pale blues. A canopy that wraps around the bed or hangs from a single central point above the bed creates a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Pair it with wooden furniture and plush textiles to enhance the cozy, hygge-inspired feel.
3. Boho Chic: Free-Spirited and Eclectic

Boho chic bedrooms are all about mixing patterns, textures, and colors to create a laid-back yet stylish space. A bed canopy in this aesthetic can be as bold as your imagination. Think vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and playful designs.

Styling Tip: For an eclectic touch, choose a canopy with tassels, macramé, or fringe detailing in bold hues like burnt orange, deep teal, or mustard yellow. Drape it loosely over the bed or attach it to a four-poster frame for a whimsical, free-spirited look. Layer in colorful pillows, tapestries, and boho rugs to complete the vibe.
4. Modern Glam: Luxurious and Polished

If your bedroom is all about glamour, a luxurious bed canopy can be the perfect finishing touch. Opt for rich fabrics like velvet or satin in jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire, or deep plum.

Styling Tip: Go for a dramatic ceiling-to-floor canopy with a bold, structured design. Combine this with a tufted headboard, mirrored furniture, and metallic accents to create a sophisticated, high-end look. This type of canopy serves as a focal point, adding instant drama and luxury to the space.
5. Farmhouse Charm: Rustic and Inviting

Farmhouse-style bedrooms are warm and welcoming, with an emphasis on rustic charm and comfort. A simple, flowing bed canopy made of cotton or muslin complements this aesthetic beautifully.

Styling Tip: Choose neutral shades like cream, ivory, or soft blush to maintain the room’s cozy atmosphere. Mount the canopy on a wooden frame or let it drape loosely from the ceiling for a relaxed, country-chic vibe. Complete the look with distressed wood furniture, soft quilts, and vintage accents.
6. Industrial Chic: Urban and Edgy

For a more industrial look, a canopy can still find its place, adding softness to an otherwise edgy aesthetic. Choose materials that contrast the room’s raw elements, like sheer fabrics against exposed brick or metal frames.

Styling Tip: Keep the canopy simple with straight lines and neutral colors like charcoal or black. A metal four-poster bed frame with a canopy draped loosely over it adds just the right touch of warmth to an urban, industrial bedroom. Pair it with concrete floors and statement lighting to balance softness with ruggedness.
7. Eclectic Mix: Playful and Bold

Eclectic bedrooms embrace the mix-and-match approach, blending various styles, patterns, and textures. A canopy in an eclectic room should stand out, whether through bold colors, dramatic shapes, or unconventional materials.

Styling Tip: Go for a statement canopy in a contrasting color to your walls and bedding. Whether you choose bold prints, velvet fabrics, or an unexpected shape, ensure your canopy feels like a curated piece of the room’s overall design. Add quirky décor pieces and layered textiles to bring your eclectic vision to life.
Versatile Focal Points for Every Room

No matter your bedroom style, bed canopies are incredibly versatile and can adapt to almost any aesthetic. The key is in the choice of materials, colors, and design that align with the room’s overall theme. Whether you prefer minimalist sophistication, boho charm, or industrial edge, a crib canopy can serve as the perfect focal point, enhancing both style and comfort in your space.
Visual Inspiration

To help you visualize these ideas, imagine a minimalist bedroom with a sleek, white canopy draped effortlessly around a low-profile bed, or a boho chic room with a vibrant canopy full of textures and colors, creating an artistic focal point. Each style offers endless possibilities for incorporating a bed canopy that speaks to your personal taste while elevating the room’s aesthetic.

Ready to transform your bedroom? Let these tips inspire you to incorporate a stylish bed canopy that complements your unique design style in 2024. Whether you’re seeking subtle elegance or bold creativity, there’s a canopy out there to fit your vision perfectly.

Silver vs. Gold: The Chain Debate – Which One Suits Your Style Best?

Sunday, September 20th, 2009

When it comes to choosing jewelry, one of the biggest decisions is whether to opt for silver or gold. Both metals have been treasured for centuries, offering distinct aesthetic qualities and practical advantages. But which one truly suits your personal style, and how do you choose between them? Let’s dive into the silver vs. gold chain debate, examining the differences, skin tone compatibility, symbolism, and more to help you determine which metal fits you best.
Aesthetic Appeal: Silver’s Cool Elegance vs. Gold’s Warm Luxury

The first major difference between silver and gold chains lies in their aesthetic appeal. Each metal brings its own unique vibe to your look, and the one you choose can change the entire feel of your outfit.

Silver chains offer a cool, modern elegance. With their sleek, understated shine, silver chains are versatile and effortlessly complement minimalist styles. Their neutral tone also makes them a great match for casual, everyday outfits, as well as polished professional looks.
Gold chains, on the other hand, exude warmth and luxury. Gold has long been associated with opulence, making it ideal for statement pieces and special occasions. Gold’s rich, vibrant hue adds a touch of sophistication and glamour, especially when paired with more formal attire.

While silver tends to have a modern and clean aesthetic, gold gives off a timeless, regal vibe, so the choice often comes down to your personal style and the occasion.
Skin Tone Compatibility: How to Choose Based on Complexion

One of the most important factors in choosing between silver and gold chains is how they complement your skin tone. Different metals flatter different complexions, and understanding this can help you make the best decision.

Silver chains are generally better suited for cool skin tones, which tend to have blue or pink undertones. If your veins appear blue or purple, or if you burn easily in the sun, you likely have a cool skin tone. Silver’s cool sheen highlights the natural glow of fair or cool-toned skin, making it an ideal choice.
Gold chains, on the other hand, flatter warm skin tones, which have yellow, peach, or olive undertones. If your veins appear green, or if you tan easily, your skin likely has warm undertones. Gold’s warm hue enhances the radiance of warm or darker skin tones.

For those with neutral skin tones, which have a mix of both warm and cool undertones, you’re in luck—both silver and gold can look equally stunning on you.
Symbolism: What Silver and Gold Represent

The symbolism behind silver and gold is another aspect that might influence your decision. These metals have long carried meaning in various cultures and contexts, often representing different qualities or ideals.

Silver is often associated with qualities like purity, clarity, and sophistication. It’s a metal that symbolizes emotional balance, femininity, and intuition. Because of its understated elegance, silver is frequently chosen by those who prefer subtlety and grace in their jewelry.
Gold, conversely, is often seen as a symbol of wealth, power, and success. Its association with the sun gives it a feeling of warmth and vitality. Throughout history, gold has been used to signify royalty and extravagance, making it the go-to choice for those who want to make a bold, confident statement.

Depending on the message or feeling you want your jewelry to convey, choosing between silver and gold can also be a matter of what symbolism resonates with you the most.
Practical Considerations: Durability, Tarnishing, and Maintenance

Aside from aesthetics, it’s also important to consider the practical aspects of silver and gold chains, particularly in terms of durability, tarnishing, and maintenance.

Silver chains (especially sterling silver) are prone to tarnishing over time due to exposure to air and moisture. However, this can be easily remedied with regular cleaning and proper storage. Silver is generally a soft metal, making it slightly less durable than gold, but with careful handling, it can last a lifetime.
Gold chains, especially those made of higher karat gold (such as 18K or 24K), are more durable and resistant to tarnishing. While gold can scratch or bend if not cared for properly, it’s typically more resilient than silver. Gold jewelry, however, comes with a higher price tag, which may factor into your decision.

If you’re looking for jewelry that requires minimal maintenance, gold might be a better option. But if you don’t mind occasional polishing and want a more affordable metal, silver is a great choice.
Styling Tips: When to Wear Silver vs. Gold Chains

Knowing how to style silver and gold chains for different outfits and occasions can help you make the most of each metal’s aesthetic.

Silver chains are the ideal accessory for casual, everyday wear or professional settings. Pair a simple silver chain with a crisp white shirt or tailored blazer for a polished office look. For casual outfits, silver adds a touch of sophistication without being too flashy. Its versatility makes it a great option for daytime events, minimalist styles, and cool-weather outfits.

Gold chains, on the other hand, are perfect for special occasions, formal events, or when you want to make a statement. A gold chain layered with pendants can instantly elevate an evening gown or cocktail dress. It also pairs beautifully with warm, earthy tones like beige, olive, or red, making it ideal for fall and winter occasions.

For mixed-metal enthusiasts, don’t be afraid to wear both! Mixing silver and gold chains can create a trendy, eclectic look, perfect for fashion-forward outfits.
Investment Value and Trends: Silver vs. Gold Jewelry

Both silver and gold chains hold investment value, but the potential return on investment differs between the two metals.

Gold has historically been a more valuable metal and tends to appreciate over time, making it a stronger investment. Its higher cost also reflects its scarcity and demand. For those looking to purchase jewelry with long-term value, gold chains are often seen as the better financial choice.
Silver, while less expensive, still holds value as a precious metal. It’s more affordable and accessible, which makes it popular among younger generations or those just starting their jewelry collections. However, silver’s price does not typically increase as dramatically as gold, so it’s often chosen more for its aesthetic appeal than for its investment potential.

In terms of trends, gold jewelry has made a strong comeback in recent years, especially with the rise of vintage and retro styles. Silver jewelry like a silver rope chain, however, remains a constant favorite, particularly for minimalist and modern looks. Both metals will continue to be fashionable, so ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and style.
Conclusion: Which Metal Suits You Best?

The silver vs. gold chain debate ultimately boils down to your personal style, skin tone, and practical needs. If you prefer a cool, modern aesthetic and don’t mind regular maintenance, silver chains offer a timeless and affordable option. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to warmth, luxury, and long-term value, gold chains are a bold, elegant choice. Whatever you choose, both metals provide endless possibilities for styling, allowing you to express your unique sense of fashion.

Chats with Champions

Wednesday, August 19th, 2009

dr vicki
Hi!

I wanted to share a message with you from Dr. Vicki Panaccione, a Parental Wisdom advisor.

From Dr. Vicki:

I have the immense honor and pleasure to invite you to listen in on an amazing parenting call on Chats with Champions. Blair Singer, author of “Little Voice” Mastery and adviser to Robert Kiyosaki (Rich Dad/Poor Dad), will be interviewing me, Dr. Vicki, the Parenting Professor™, about ways to help parents be teachers – not preachers—to their kids. Blair and I are currently working on “Little Voice” Mastery for Parents, focusing on helping parents send clear, positive messages to their kids that will enable them to feel confident and capable throughout their lives.

This interview is one in a series of calls that members of Blair’s exclusive All-Access Club have available on a monthly basis. Since Blair and I want to get our message out to as many parents and professionals as possible, he is making a very generous offer so everyone can have access to this call. Now through August 31st, you can gain entry into his exclusive All-Access Club for only $1. Additionally, you will receive two free bonus downloads: Learn to be Debt-Free and Wealthy, and Code of Honor for your organization.

Below are the details for dialing in. I hope you will be able to join us for this amazing call! We are excited to be bringing his “Little Voice” Mastery insights and techniques to parents all over the world!

Dr. Vicki F. Panaccione, the Parenting Professor™
PhD, Licensed Psychologist
Founder, Better Parenting Institute
321-795-9218
http://www.BetterParentingInstitute.com

Here’s the scoop:

Want to Raise Your Child to Be Happy and Successful?

Learn how with Dr. Vicki Panaccione…the Parenting Professor™

Join Blair Singer* on his next Chats with Champions call,
where he will interview internationally renowned child
expert, Dr. Vicki Panaccione — otherwise known as the
Parenting Professor™. A Ph.D. child psychologist with
25+ years of clinical experience, Dr. Vicki will share
insights to help you become a genuine teacher–not a
preacher–to your children. Mark your calendar and be
sure to tune in to this amazing call.

Chats with Champions Call

with Dr. Vicki, the Parenting Professor™

Wednesday, August 19, 2009
5 p.m. PST; 8 p.m. EDT

http://www.heasleyandpartners.com/all-access-club-benefits.html

Dr. Vicki is a consultant for the innovative
http://parentalwisdom.com/ and Nickelodeon’s
http://www.parentsconnect.com/. She’s the author of Your Child’s Inner Brilliance…Parent’s Guideto Discovery and What Your Kids Would Tell You…If OnlyYou’d Ask!, and contributing author (with Tony Robbins, Dr. Wayne Dyer, Bill Bartmann and others) of the best-selling book, Wake Up and Live the Life You Love…The Power of Team.

*Blair Singer is the author of the revolutionary new book,
“Little Voice” Mastery™ – How to Win the War Between Your
Ears in 30 Seconds or Less –and Have an Extraordinary Life!
He is founder of Little Voice Mastery Institute, the virtual
learning center that helps people move beyond their “Little
Voice” that undermines their happiness and success, to
become the bigger, more powerful people they were meant
to be. Blair now speaks to tens of thousands of people all
around the world on “Little Voice” Mastery and how it can be
applied to better your life personally and professionally. He
is also the CEO of SalesPartners Worldwide, a global network of
mentors and business builders who work one-on-one with
businesses and corporations to help them achieve double digit
growth in any economy.

How do you teach respect?

Sunday, August 16th, 2009

respect

I’ve been noticing the way parents talk to their children and realize the respect and attention they show their children is what the children will learn.

Is it really that easy?

Perfect Example of a Missed Opportunity

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2009

madd

In a less than courageous move, the South Plainfield NJ Board of Education reversed a decision by school administrators to ban from the graduation ceremony a group of students who came drunk to the prom. Students signed a pledge to arrive at their prom alcohol-free but at least some came “visibly inebriated,” a spokesperson said.

The students’ parents protested the ruling and threatened to take the issue to the state commissioner of education. The board then reversed the decision.

I don’t blame the Board of Education for not having a backbone, though it is obvious. I blame the parents for not having the wisdom teach their children a life lesson so valuable it could actually save their lives.

The question a parent should always ask is, “what is the worst that could happen?” For parents of the students that had the nerve to come to the prom drunk might actually cause them to learn about consequences.

Let’s focus instead on the majority of the students in South Plainfield High who deserve to enjoy this wonderful milestone despite this minority of the student population creating such a distraction.

Kudos to the teachers who are fed up with a system that caves to loud parents who don’t seem to know any better.

This could be urban legend, but the following is supposedly the answering machine message the Pacific Palisades High School (CA) staff voted to record on their school answering machine system. This came about because the school implemented a policy requiring parents to be responsible for their children’s absences and missing homework. The school and teachers are being sued by parents who want their children’s failing grades changed to passing grades even though those children were absent 15 to 30 times during the semester and did not complete enough school work to pass their classes.

“Hello! You have reached the automated answering service of your school. In order to assist you in connecting to the right staff member, please listen to all your options before making a selection:
To lie about why your child is absent, press 1
□ To make excuses for why your child did not do his work, press 2
□ To complain about what we do, press 3
□ To swear at staff members, press 4
□ To ask why you didn’t get information that was already enclosed in your newsletter and several flyers mailed to you, press 5
□ If you want us to raise your child, press 6
□ If you want to reach out and touch, slap, or hit someone, press 7
□ To request another teacher for the third time this year, press 8
□ To complain about bus transportation, press 9
□ To complain about school lunches, press 0
□ If you realize this is the real world and your child must be accountable and responsible for his/her own behavior, class work, and homework, and that it’s not the teachers’ fault for your child’s lack of effort…hang up and have a nice day!”

We have a bill of rights. We need a bill of responsibilities. -Bill Maher

Exerpted from Because Kids Don’t Come with Manuals®:Contemporary Advice for Parents by Tina Nocera

What do you think about this issue?

Based on flimsy research

Sunday, April 26th, 2009

parenting1

When the family is in order, all the social relationships of mankind shall be in order.
– I Ching

I’ve watched shows like Dr. Phil where a seven-year-old is hitting and cursing at his parents and find myself wondering…how did it get that bad? It couldn’t have started out that way? Do we hope for parenting advice that at best is based on flimsy research?

Like a pull in a scarf, any problem left unresolved can unravel. As parents we face little problems on a daily basis. We have to pay attention and resolve the little problems before they get worse and overwhelm us.

That is where Parental Wisdom® comes in. In the past, parents lived in a sort of village, seeking advice from family and friends. Today’s families live further apart and deal with more complex societal issues. Parents turn to experts, but the idea of a one-size-fit all solution to parenting problems just doesn’t work if we really believe we are unique.

The traditional method of turning to family and friend for parenting advice presents a different set of problems:

Has that person had experience with that particular situation? After all, our moms didn’t raise us in the same media and marketing intense world.
If someone offers you advice and you don’t agree, now what?
Do you have to ‘report’ back to them?
And most importantly, as your child’s advocate, what if your child does something you simply don’t want to share? Then where do you turn?

To understand Parental Wisdom imagine a place where you could ask all your parenting questions, and where you, the real expert in knowing your child best, are given multiple opinions from trusted, credible sources so you can choose which advice works best for your unique child and situation.

Imagine that you can be anonymous and this unique service is free.

You have a good imagination.

Parental Wisdom is so unique, it’s patented.

    Once a parent, always a parent.

Questions start before the first baby arrives and continue well past grandchildren.

Here is an idea of some of the questions our nearly 100 expert advisors respond to:
My 18- year old son who is a high school graduate shows no responsibility….
I know baby’s cry a lot, but our newborn (6 day old) baby has cried through the night and all morning…
I have two boys that share a bedroom, closet, bunk beds, and toys. They are ages 7 and 8. When its time to clean their room, they begin arguing that they’ve cleaned up their mess but the rest is their brother’s mess…
My nine-year-old is having problems with our next door neighbor’s daughter. There is a lot of nasty name calling and sometimes it gets physical…
I have been divorced for almost 2 years and have joint/legal custody of my 4 ½ year-old daughter, while I am the primary parent of residence, our divorce decree states that we are to make medical, religion and school decisions together, however…
My 13- year old daughter has a boyfriend that I don’t like. I want to forbid her to see him but I’m afraid she will date him at school behind my back….
My 15-yr old daughter was caught cheating with her cell phone on a physics test…
At what age would you allow a child to have a Facebook?
I have an 8 yr. old son who was badly bullied in kindergarten and till this day, he still feels uncomfortable in school even though it is a different and much better school…

Where do you turn to find answers?

Here is a short video on Parental Wisdom. Please forward to your friends.

Follow me on twitter

Today – modern villages are needed to raise a child

Saturday, March 21st, 2009

eight-babies

Not too long ago, I was presenting a parenting seminar at a local mom’s group. At the end of the discussion a very pretty and very pregnant mom raised her hand. “Does it get any easier?” In unison, all the moms in the room said, “Yes!”

It turned out this teary, exhausted mom was two weeks away from having her fourth child and busy caring for her five-year-old, three-year old, and 18-month old children, with no help.

I knew this community, and interestingly part of the town’s name was ‘the village’ so helping was second nature to them. Going out on a limb, I asked this mom if she had ever been on the ‘giving’ side. She nodded and explained how she had run a program at church that helped members in need.

Why is it easy to help others, yet difficult to ask for help?

As the African proverb suggests, it does take a village to raise a child. Today’s villages use modern tools such as Google Calendar. Volunteers sign up to make meals, coordinate trips to doctors and guarantee sufficient coverage. For families dealing with family illnesses, or financial struggles the situations are tough, but not insurmountable. They are in temporary need of help and fortunately, people rally to their aid.

Other families that need help are high profile such as ‘Jon and Kate plus 8’ and next we’ll meet The Hayes Family on TLC’s ‘Table for Twelve’ but because collectively, we like these families, they get help from sponsor companies providing vans, homes, diapers, juice, clothes, etc.

Compare that to Octomom, where simple math meets complex issues.

The simple math is:
• 0 job for the sole breadwinner
• 1 single mother
• 6 siblings
• 8 newborns
• 14 children in total
• 15 minutes of fame

The complex issues are:
• Should someone lacking the financial means have 14 children?
• Who was a right to say how many children someone can have?
• Should a potentially dangerous medical situation be allowed?
• What about everyone else who would love to have more children, but feels financially restricted have to pay for someone else’s decision to have 14 children?
• When and how often should a child advocacy agency step in to check on the care the children are getting?
• Who are we to judge?

For now, I hope the surrounding community and sponsor companies help, despite the fact that Nadya Suleman is hardly an ideal spokesperson. It’s not about her; it’s about the babies, and their needed care. Much like a teenage pregnancy, the situation is not ideal.

The controversy and questions will go on, and babies will do what they always do, grow and thrive while the adults are busy talking. We have to realize even though we seriously question her state of mind, and her ability to handle this tremendously difficult situation, she is after all, their mother.

Be kind for everyone you meet if fighting a hard battle. – Plato

Your Home: A Sanctuary That Needs TLC (Tender Loving Care)

Saturday, February 21st, 2009

Our homes are more than just addresses on a map; they’re sanctuaries where we unwind, recharge, and build memories. But just like our bodies, our houses need constant care to function at their best. In today’s world, with an emphasis on well-being, sustainability, and even changing economic realities, prioritizing home improvement is no longer a “maybe,” it’s a must.

Here’s why keeping your house in top shape and embracing smart improvements should be a top priority:

1. A Healthy Haven for You and Your Loved Ones:

Ignoring minor issues can snowball into major health hazards. Leaky pipes can lead to mold growth, triggering respiratory problems and allergies. Faulty electrical wiring can spark fires, while structural damage can compromise the integrity of your home. Addressing these issues promptly ensures a safe and healthy environment for everyone living there.

2. Investing in Your Future:

Think of regular maintenance as preventative medicine for your house. Fixing minor problems now prevents them from becoming expensive repairs later. A well-maintained home also retains its value better, making it a wise financial decision in the long run.

3. Saving Money and the Planet:

Upgrading windows, doors, and insulation can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency. This translates to substantial savings on your utility bills, especially with today’s fluctuating energy costs. Additionally, a more energy-efficient home reduces your environmental impact, making it a win-win for your wallet and the planet.

4. From Function to Flourishing:

Let’s not forget the sheer joy of living in a comfortable and inviting space. Investing in improvements that enhance your day-to-day life, like creating a dedicated home office nook or increasing storage for a clutter-free environment, can significantly boost your well-being. A well-designed and organized home can minimize stress and allow you to truly unwind after a long day.

5. Adapting to the Changing Landscape:

The way we live in our homes is constantly evolving. Working remotely has become increasingly common, and creating dedicated workspaces within our homes is a necessity. Smart home technology features can enhance security, control your environment, and even optimize energy usage.

Making Smart Choices for Your Home

With ever-changing economic realities, it’s important to prioritize projects that offer a strong return on investment (ROI). Focus on repairs that address major structural issues or safety concerns first, you can get the best contractors like www.ApdrRestoration.com for the most important repairs. Then, consider improvements that can enhance energy efficiency or create a more functional living space. Many government initiatives and rebates might also be available to help offset the cost of home improvement projects, so be sure to do your research.

Your home is an extension of yourself, a reflection of your lifestyle and aspirations. By investing in its maintenance and improvement, you’re creating a healthy, safe, and comfortable haven that will enrich your life for years to come. So, embrace the journey of transforming your house into a true home, whether you tackle projects yourself or call in the experts. Remember, a little TLC goes a long way!

How Do You Mail a Hug to Your College Kid?

Sunday, November 30th, 2008

college

Living away from home for the first time presents many challenges to your college age child. They believe this is independence, but we know it is a baby step. Hopefully they’ve done their own laundry at least once.

As your college child approaches first semester finals, why not send them a long distance hug, aka healthy food snacks.

Check to see if your school has care packages ready to send or try some of these sites. Remember, they still need to hear from us even if we don’t often hear from them.

Sealed with a Kiss

From Mom.com

Hip Kits

Lead Us Not Into Temptation

Sunday, November 23rd, 2008

thanksgiving

Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others. – Cicero (106 BC – 43 BC)

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. That is how I feel as I read Sunday’s paper. On one hand, the dismal economic forecasts for 2009; on the other hand, the glossy slick ‘door buster’ circulars encouraging us to get up at 4am the day after Thanksgiving.

Our children are watching. We have an opportunity to fight the marketers back. A young mom putting her child into his Spiderman® pajamas said, “I have fought as much as I could, but he lit up when he saw them in the store. I loved watching the joy on his face and I had to get them.”

The desire to elicit joy comes from love. But as we approach the most difficult financial conditions any of us have ever experienced, we cannot do things the same way we have in the past. The need is pajamas; the want is Spiderman® pajamas. The instant gratification of that purchase is momentary and fleeting, for both the parent and child.

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, be grateful for what you have. Are any of the items on the circulars glossy pages are among them? Sitting together at the table this Thursday, ask everyone to write down what they are thankful for.

Gratitude is a emotion that can get us through the most difficult times and put in perspective what really matters. Don’t respond to the ups and downs of a turbulent economy; instead be grateful for the people that matter in your life.