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3 Ways To Save Money This Summer

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3 Ways To Save Money This Summer

I don’t know about you. . .but when we begin to live our days carefree and the schedule goes out the window, the budget often goes with it. There are many activities and treats we can easily spend extra money on during the summer months. But for those of us who need to keep watch over our spending 12 months out of the year, here are a few simple ways to save money this summer.

1. Pack a lunch. Running errands. . .staying at the pool at little longer than expected. It’s very easy to find ourselves unprepared for lunch at which time our local Chick Fil A often benefits from my lack of planning. This summer I am making it a habit to pack a lunch {or at least heavy snacks} every day we venture out. This way we can linger by the pool or on the playground a bit longer without worrying about where to stop on the way home. Money saving and healthier for all of us.

2. Look for coupons. I’m pretty sure this is a habit we’ve all adopted but just in case we need a reminder. I don’t do anything. . .nothing. . .without first looking for an online coupon or savings opportunity. Local museums, play places and bowling centers have summer saving programs. Local movie theaters often have summer kids movies for a fraction of the price of a regular ticket. If you are out shopping, know which stores you plan to browse and find your coupons ahead of time. Don’t leave the house without first knowing how you are going to save money on the outing.

3. Make your own iced coffee. If you are as dependent as I am on coffee, you may just be spending your child’s future college tuition at Starbucks. Feeling the expense of my habit, I have recently downgraded to a “tall iced coffee with 2% milk and 1 Splenda” at the drive through and better yet, I most often brew, chill and make my own iced coffee at home. Do a bit of work on your recipe if you like the fancy stuff and invest the time in perfecting your barista skills at home. A $3 coffee {and this is conservative} 2 times a week {also conservative} will save you $6 a week or at least $60 this summer! That’s a new pair of jeans for your fall wardrobe!!

These tips are simple but most money saving ideas are. Which is why we can easily stay conscious of our spending and tighten the reigns this summer. I’m committed to keeping our budget on track even while the rest of our life is relaxed.

What are some of your easy, summer money saving tips?

Jessica Sig

{Photo Credit}

This post is in partnership with our new friends over at Save1.com Check out this amazing savings destination that helps you save while saving the lives of hungry children.

Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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How My Daughter Taught Me To Get Over My Varicose Veins

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Summer Legs

 ”Mommy, what are those purple lines on your leg?” she asked.

“Those are mommy’s veins,” I said, disgusted with one of my body’s biggest imperfections.

She looked more closely and you could tell she wanted to know more. My mind started formulating several statements of complaint in which I would tell my daughter how ugly I thought my legs were and how I won’t wear shorts even if it’s 105 degrees out.

But my heart spoke before my head could send it’s message to my mouth. {For once in my life.}

“We all have veins honey. When you get older, sometimes they start to show up a little more,” I explained. In that moment, I fought a battle between the part of me that needed to complain about something that plagues me daily and the part that knew I couldn’t let my daughter see my deep discontent with a physical feature.

In a matter of seconds, I decided to get over it. Not so much for me, but for her.

She began to examine her own body.

“I have veins too mommy, see?” she said, pointing to her wrist as if she were proud that part of her was just like part of me.

“I see them. Yes, you do.” I replied.

Oh how easy it is to innocently complain about our veins, our cellulite, our frizzy hair, our belly pooch. . . Little comments that little ears and little minds file away and bring to recollection, even unknowingly, years later when it really matters. In a child’s mind, it’s not an imperfection at all but rather a point of inquisition. A difference. A question to be explored. They only begin to understand it’s a “bad” difference when we reveal to them that it’s unwanted.

Our children will encounter enough messages through the world about what is good and acceptable regarding their body and the way they look. They don’t need us to lay a foundation of doubt and discontent for them. What they need is affirmation and our example of self-respect to send a message of acceptance to their hearts.

Yes, at 36 I have a spider/varicose vein on the back of my legs reminiscent of one I once saw on my 90 year old great grandmother’s leg. It’s often mistaken for a nasty bruise and it’s the reason I shy away from shorts in the summer time. I may or may not be able to treat it medically someday. No, it’s not the only one I have. Just the biggest.

But I’m over it. I’m not going to let those little buggers ruin my summer. It’s part of who I am {actually, something I inherited from my grandmother – hopefully along with her ferocious faith and ability to cook}. I will not let those veins affect the way my daughter looks at her own imperfections.

Last week {when I pulled shorts out of the drawer for the first time this season}, I couldn’t have written these words. But I am thankful for these moments with our children that stretch us and teach us as we try desperately to lead them in the right direction. Now, every time I look at one of those purple lines on my legs, I think of my girl and how much I want her to love herself.

And because of that desire, I’m learning to love myself more and more every day.

How has your child helped you to see your imperfections differently?

Jessica Sig

{Photo Credit}

Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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Growing in Grace: A Call for Feedback

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Suggestions

For the past year we have had the great privilege of serving the moms in this community through stories and insights that have hopefully encouraged and empowered. As we look towards the next year {and even the next 5 or more} we are praying that God would show us how to serve you better through community, conversation and a commitment to share grace in this space.

We are working hard behind the scenes on some exciting changes and developments but before we go any further, we want to hear from YOU on what you would like to see at Grace for Moms.

We ask that you take a moment to complete the form below with your valuable feedback. Please don’t hesitate to make additional comments about what YOU need from this community of moms. Be specific. We truly want to know how we can make this a powerhouse of support for all moms.

We are so thankful that you have trusted us with your heart and your valuable time over the past 12 months. We look forward to getting to know you more as we move forward.

Honored to be growing in grace with you,
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Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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As We Look Towards Summer

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Summer Quote

I know it’s not officially summer yet but it sure does feel like it in parts of the country. I’m one to wish away summer with it’s sticky heat and the bugs. . .my goodness, the bugs. But summer is so much more than sweat and creepy crawlies. As I look towards sending my oldest to school in the fall, summer is about keeping her close, holding on to her innocence before she enters the “real world”. So. . .I am determined to not wish away this summer.

We’ll be focusing on summer during the month of June with lots of tips and ideas for you and your family. For now, I simply wanted to encourage each one of us to embrace this season of warmth and fun. . .to surrender ourselves to lazy days and bare feet.

It will pass by in a flash and so will the days with our children. Let’s enjoy it!

What’s your favorite part of summer? What would you like to see us write about summer on the blog next month?

Jessica Sig

{Photo Credit}

Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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Mama, Do You Feel Forgotten?

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We are not forgotten

It wasn’t even 8am and already I knew it was going to be one of those days. Practically attached to my legs, one on each side, they just needed mommy that morning.

“Mommy, toys,” said the little one.

“Mommy, I want to snuggle,” begged the older one.

All I wanted was one cup of coffee before the neediness ensued. But alas, the responsibility of motherhood waits for no woman, least of all the one with typically needy children.

What about my needs? I thought. Of course I’ve known the answer to that question ever since He answered my cry for children. They come first.

Realizing there would be little to no time to focus on myself, I felt defeated before I’d taken one sip of my much needed fuel for the day. I managed to find a moment to pour a cup and sat down with a devotion. I read,

“I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands.” Isaiah 49:15-16

Oh, how life comes from reading that we are not forgotten, mama. Do you believe it? He sees us. He hears our cry for grace. . .for space. . .for coffee.

I wanted a reminder. A moment by moment reminder that He sees me. I grabbed a pen and drew a heart on my palm. He keeps me there, nestled in the cup of His hands. This, my reminder that I am seen. That I am not forgotten.

This simple reminder supplied me with the grace I needed to make it through the day. Not all days so obviously push me and my needs to the background, but on the days that do, I will remind myself that He sees me.

Mama, do you feel forgotten? Grab a pen and write this reminder on the palm of your hand. He sees you. He will not forget you. Although you may feel shadowed by the needs of your children or the busyness of the day, you are not hidden from Him.

The heart on my palm faded by the time I got those kiddos in bed. Just in time to breathe a sigh of relief and spend some much needed time on myself and my husband. Another reminder – that His grace is sufficient. Today I’ll scribble the heart again on my hand and remember that He sees me today. This day. For His mercies are new every morning.

Do you feel forgotten? How do you remind yourself that your name is written on the palm of His hands?

Jessica Sig

 

Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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The Sweetest Resource to Teach Your Girl About the Sweet Fruit of the Spirit

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Princess Bible Purse

The moment my daughter laid eyes on this book, she lit up. Everything a girl could look for in a shiny, new book, My Princess Bible Purse is pink, pretty and full of sparkles. But that description does not just identify its outside. The content in this book is equally beautiful, teaching young girls the fruit of the spirit.

As you know, we love to share about great, new resources that will help moms share the love and lessons of Christ with their little ones. This particular book is right up my ally because it combines cuteness and depth. Walking through the instruction found in Galatians 5:22-23 with an adorable rhyme, My Princess Bible Purse is a wonderful way to teach these important characteristics to your little girl.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patiencce, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23

This book seems most appropriate for girls ages 3 to 6 when they are most likely to want to carry around a glittery “purse”. Read it to your daughter on the go or quietly before bedtime as you share your heart about God’s desire to see such fruit grow in her own life.

Our friends at Tommy Nelson are giving away a copy of this adorable book to one lucky reader. Enter through Rafflecopter below!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

How are you teaching your child about the fruit of the spirit?

Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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In the Shadows of Overwhelmed

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Overwhelmed

I get to the end of most days knowing I missed out on so much. Overwhelmed by the details of everyday life, it’s so easy to miss the beauty that surrounds. Motherhood is basically a constant state of movement and chaos. We go from meal to meal; from the first little person who wakes our sleepy head to the last one we kiss goodnight.

The other day my babies {age 5 and almost 2} were holding hands in the backseat as we drove to dance class. For a while they simply sat there, quietly grasping their hands together. Then came the giggling. I’m not sure what my daughter was saying to her little brother but he thought it was hilarious. As they laughed together {still holding hands} a song played in the background,

“so picture all the best things in life, that’s what love looks like.” {Dara MacLean}

And time stood still. It truly felt like it stopped. My heart begged to have the moment linger forever but my head knew it wouldn’t be long before someone needed a drink or dropped their lovie.

It got me thinking. I’m tired of missing out. I’m tired of being so shadowed by my overwhelmed state that I race through the day to bedtime. I’m done with failing to savor the moment because I’m looking toward the next one. I am so over the attitude that rises in my spirit when I’m stressed and unsure of where the strength will come to deliver one.more.meal to their hungry bellies. . .to change yet another diaper. . .to wash one more load of laundry.

So how do we come out of the shadows? It’s a daily minute by minute decision to choose love and life over the thanklessness of stress and busyness. We must choose to live in the moment. We must choose to savor life. And we must be committed to doing whatever it takes to pull ourselves out of the dark and into the light of everyday blessings.

Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Colossians 4:2

The apostle Paul knew how to encourage the church to rise above their current state to a place of holiness. This verse comes at the end of a letter filled with instructions on how to live a holy life. His admonition is a beautiful summation that compels us to pray, be mindful and full of gratitude.

This, I believe, is the formula for a life lived in the light.

 Have you been living in the shadows? What are some ways you have found to step into the light?

{Photo Credit}

Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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A Simple Teacher Gift That’s Sure to Be a Hit

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This afternoon, after discussing with my girlfriends what we should get for teachers this year, I kept going back and forth between something simple {like a gift card} and something that requires more time {like the countless, adorable, crafty, teachery-type items on Pinterest}. Then I came across a status update on Facebook that read something like this:

“Friends, if you are thinking about what to get your child’s teachers this year I just want to say, as a former teacher – while every gift is appreciated – try to give them something that is about them. Teachers don’t think about apples and school supplies every minute of every day. If you want to say thank you, say it with something that they can use for themselves.”

And there you have it. Problem solved. While I have dreams of creating the most beautiful, teacher/school supply thank you gift, they will probably appreciate something simple that they can use for themselves. Like a gift card. For that item they’ve had their eye on for months but can’t justify buying for themselves.

If you prefer to go the crafty route, by all means, do it. I will be one of those moms salivating over the beauty you’ve made of a clipboard, a little chalkboard paint and ribbon. But if you are like me – a little creatively challenged – then be at peace with a gift card that your child’s teacher will love!

Here are a few creative and thoughtful ways to present your teachers with a gift card from their favorite destination:

Target GC

 

Starbucks GC

 

 

TJ Maxx GC

{Note: These are NOT printables. They are simply ideas that you can recreate. I used picmonkey.com to lay out these cards. It’s super simple. Give it a try!}

What are some simple and teacher-friendly gifts you have given?

Jessica Sig

Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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Surviving As The ‘Older’ Mom

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B&W Fam Pic

{Today’s guest post is from my long time friend, Beth Holmes. Beth is a mom and a writer and well. . .she wears many other hats as a minister’s wife. I am thrilled to have her here at Grace for Moms today.}

I came to the world of motherhood later than some.  Having been married for almost 14 years when Henry was born, we had to start over again learning who we are as a couple, as a family, and for me as a wife and mother.

I don’t fit the profile of a “typical” mom of an almost three-year old boy.  It takes me a few seconds longer than the other moms to get up and down in our Kindermusik class.  My closest friends are not in line with me in the nursery pick-up on Sunday mornings.

But God is teaching me some important lessons through these days, and maybe my experiences can encourage those of you who find yourselves the “older” mom at story time.

1)  The toddler years are only for a season.

I remind myself that these years are a very short season of life, and they will pass quickly.  Little arms will not hang onto my legs forever, and someday I will go to the bathroom by myself.

 2)  If I am intentional, I can continue to pursue things that interest me.

Some days I feel like my brain is turning to mush.  Before Henry was born, I worked in various academic settings.  Then I started watching “Sesame Street,” “Pocoyo,” and Toy Story.  By making small goals for myself, I have learned to finish a book, practice an instrument, or try a new recipe.

3)  Friends who have “been there, done that” are very important to my mental state.

I recently spent an hour and a half of precious nap time talking with a friend whose children are now in school.  Sharing my struggles made me feel so much better.  She assured me that I am normal and this will pass.  I needed someone who could identify with where I am and cheer me on to the other side.

4)  Continuing a romantic relationship with my husband is possible.

Romance is possible, just different.  We have fewer date nights because we not only have to pay for the date, we have to pay for a babysitter.  But that doesn’t keep us from looking for free/inexpensive date ideas, and saving a little for something special.

Being the ‘older’ mother does have its advantages.  I have endured many trials up until the point I became a mom that have opened my eyes to the lessons God can teach us through each season if we remain open to his instruction.

“The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.” Psalm 19:8

What about you? Whether younger or older, what lesson is God teaching you through these days of motherhood?

Beth Holmes is a wife and mother living in Owensboro, Kentucky.  She thinks life is best served with good books, good music, and good coffee.  You can find her on her blog A Fine Close Weave at bethholmes.wordpress.com

Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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Four Great Resources from Tommy Nelson {with a giveaway}

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photo 2 5.03.12 PM

As you can probably tell, I love sweet resources for my small kiddos. I am always looking for trusted people, experiences or products that will help me guide them along their spiritual journey. This obsession fuels my relationship with Tommy Nelson because they just might be the best source for wonderfully, encouraging and instructional books and videos for kids. I am always honored to share their products with you and equally thrilled to be able to give them away once a month. It’s a highlight of this space for me – being able to share about great resources for moms and share a prize from time to time.

This week we have several great books/videos for toddlers/preschoolers.

Tommy Nelson’s Prayers for Boys and Prayers for Girls books are simply adorable. Like the Easter book we shared about last month, these small board books have a handle attached. So fun to watch the littles walk around with these sweet books in their hands. What I love most about these books is that they teach children about prayer. Very simply, they explain how and when to pray. These books are the perfect gift for a baby or toddler – even my preschooler loves them.

Max Lucado’s Hermie and Friends I Will Tell The Truth DVD includes two classic episodes with lessons that are perfect for preschoolers. My toddler was also very interested as the characters and animation caught his attention right away. The lessons taught in these episodes were simple and easy for my preschooler to understand.

The On The Farm: Cocka Doodle Do The Right Thing story was equally resourceful for my kids. Including a fun story, music video and resources for parents, this DVD is a great one to have in your entertainment arsenal. Do The Right Thing features the voice talents of Amy Grant and Vince Gill!

There is perhaps nothing more daunting than the hope of transferring our faith to the hearts of our children. From the time they are placed in our arms for the first time and every.single.day thereafter, we long to build up their knowledge of God and his ways while introducing them to a very real, very personal relationship with him. I am so thankful for friends like Tommy Nelson who purpose to come along side moms to aide them through the process of faith development. We cannot do it alone mamas. We need a church body. . .we need pastors. . .we need friends. . .we need teachers. . .and we need resources to help guide us in leading our children along their spiritual journey.

If you are looking for books/DVDs to teach your small children the foundation of faith, once again Tommy Nelson provides great options with something for everyone. I highly recommend these resources for moms.

We are thrilled to be able to give away this prize pack to one lucky winner. Enter using Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Moms, who or what has made the biggest impact on you in guiding your children along their journey of faith?

Jessica Sig

Disclaimer: I was given a copy of these products in exchange for my review but all opinions are my own!

Jessica Wolstenholm

Jessica Wolstenholm is co-founder of Grace for Moms. She is passionate about writing words of grace for moms and moms-to-be. Co-author of The Pregnancy Companion book, she also blogs about TTC, infertility & pregnancy at ThePregnancyCompanion.com

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