Your St. Patrick Coloring pages are ready for you to download for your kids.  I remember how important holidays were to me as a child.  St. Patrick’s Day was one of my favorites because it was fun to catch the unsuspecting friend who forgot to wear green.  Pinches all around.

I’ve often wondered why St. Patrick’s Day was such a big deal here in the United States.  After learning there are 4.1 million people who live in Ireland and  35 million people in the U.S., who have Irish ancestry, it makes sense.  Going back several generations, there’s a bit of Irish blood in my veins also.

Kids look forward to the “wearing of the green” and celebrating one of the oldest observed holidays.

Here are your St. Patrick day choices.

Tall St Patrick colored

Tall St. Patrick Black and White

Pat colored

Pat Black and White

I remember a neighbor, who made shamrock sugar cookies with green icing sprinkled with shiny sugar crystals.   I couldn’t wait to get mine.  They seemed extra special since my mom didn’t do the sugar cookie routine.   I never fell into the sugar cookie routine either… that’s why I look for mine at the local grocery store.  I love sugar cookies.

Print off the St. Patrick coloring sheets for your kids to enjoy.  Keep them busy with a few crayons and markers.

Til Later,

Kathy Griffiths

Insightful Nana

P.S.  I keep a stack of  St. Patrick Coloring pages printed since my grands visit at different times.  They are so use to having seasonal coloring pages around, they always look for them when they come by.

Preparing for disaster can be tricky business when it comes to educating children for something that may never happen.

With the convenience of technology, exposure to witnessing the effects of an emergency or disaster is much more readily accessible to our children than it was several years ago.  Graphic photos and video that come across our television screens immediately following a tragedy can cause concern for your kids.

What can you do to assure your children so they feel safe now, and yet prepare for disaster, in case it should happen?

1. Limit the amount of media your kids are exposed to during a calamity in another area, especially young children. Watching the event over and over may cause them to believe the event is occurring again and again.

2. Answer their questions truthfully. However, explain and use vocabulary that is age appropriate. Avoid over burdening them with too much information and graphic details.

3. Get informed about the type of disaster that would most likely occur in your area. Check to see what emergency preparations your city, county and state have made toward disaster planning. However, don’t expect them to come to your aid immediately. Often it’s three to seven days before emergency services are able to offer assistance.

4. Prepare your family for an emergency. It helps the family accept the fact that emergencies do happen, but you can do something about it. When your kids know you are prepared, they will be less concerned.

5. Allow your kids to be part of designing the emergency preparedness plan. Have a communication strategy with telephone numbers so they will know who to contact.

Discuss the safety rules and decide where you will meet in case you are separated. Practice the plan. This will help you determine the “holes” in the plan so your can make revisions.

6. Assemble a disaster kit that will aid you in case you have to leave your home in a hurry. It’s suggested the kit should supply very basic needs, such as food, water and protection for at least 72 hours. Planning for 84 hours is even better.

7. Store enough food and water in your home to last from 3 to 7 days, in case you have to remain in your home during the emergency. Light, cooking and heat sources will be necessary also, in case electricity is not available for an extended period of time.

8. Involved your children in gathering supplies and putting your emergency reserves together. Participation will give them a sense of control. They will actually cope better during a disaster, if one were to happen.

Til later,

Kathy Griffiths
Insightful Nana

P.S. The better your family is prepared for disaster, the less concern your kids will have about surviving difficulty. Sometimes is not a matter of whether you will survive, but how well you survive.

Growing certain indoor house plants that purify air came as a surprise to me.   It does make sense when you come to think about it.  Trees do the same thing for the environment.   They say the jungle in South America near the Amazon are the lungs of the earth.

Research from NASA (National Aeronautics & Space Admin.) found that certain house plants act as natural air filters to clean and purify air.   Toxic substances such as formaldehyde, benzene (cigarette smoke,) air mold spores, and allergens, that cause allergies and asthma, are prevalent in our homes.  These toxins can be greatly reduced by having certain air purifying plants in your surroundings.

If you have the space, there are several indoor palm plants that are at the top of the list for purifying air in your home or office.  However, if your space is limited, there are smaller plants like English Ivy and Boston Fern that are very effective for reducing air mold spores and formaldehyde.

Even the hardy Heart Phiodendrom and Peace Lily are on the chart for being air purifying house plants.  (I love a Peace Lily because if I neglect it, beautiful blooms still appear.)  The easy to grow Spider Plant is a dandy for reducing  Carbon Monoxide and Nitrogen Dioxide.

Here is a chart suggesting which house plants purify the air.

If you’re interested in having one of these handy charts so you can refer back to it when you go shopping… simply fill in your information below and I’ll send you a download link.

Kathy Griffiths

Insightful Nana

P.S.  Well, my favorite natural indoor plant purifier is the Boston Fern, and the Peace Lily… so I’m going to keep my eye open for a good deal.

Happy Birthday George Washington…  You are 282 years old today… Congratulations!

In the past several years, I have become very interested in American history and the lives of our Founding Fathers.  (Now why couldn’t I have been this passionate about American history when I was in school?)   Anyway… I am amazed at the dedication and brilliance of George Washington.

He was born in 1732 and was educated at home by his father.  (One of the first models of home schooling ?)

At the age of 20 years old he was a major in the Virginia Militia.  He became one of the largest tobacco plantation owners in Virginia owning over 6,600 acres of land and owning over 100 slaves… which he eventually freed.

After Massachusetts was attacked by the British in 1775, Washington appeared at the second Continental Congress dress in Military attire. He accepted a commission to lead a Continental  Army against the British in order to protect the citizens of Massachusetts.

He was one of the members of the Continental Congress who signed the Declaration of Independence.

After the Declaration of Independence was signed, he continued as the the General of Revolution until it ended in 1783.  He was 51 years old when the war ended.

He was elected President of the United States by 100% of the Electoral votes but declined his salary of $25,000 per year.   He served eight years and could have stayed in his position for a lifetime.  He set the precedent of leaving office after two terms.

He feared that if a President served longer than two terms, he would gain too much power and become a monarch.

During his farewell address he warn about getting involved in foreign wars.  He also
warned against failing moral values and said religion that aspired values would be our only saving grace.

I found this Interesting information from his papers.

Head Quarters, New York, August 3rd 1776. 
Parole Uxbridge. Countersign Virginia
That the Troops may have an opportunity of attending public worship, as well as take some rest after the great fatigue they have gone through; The General in future excuses them from fatigue duty on Sundays (except at the Ship Yards, or special occasions) until further orders.   The General is sorry to be informed that the foolish, and wicked practice, of profane cursing and swearing (a Vice heretofore little known in an American Army) is growing into fashion; he hopes the officers will, by example, as well as influence, endeavor to check it, and that both they, and the men will reflect, that we can have little hopes of the blessing of Heaven on our Arms, if we insult it by our impiety, and folly; added to this, it is a vice so mean and low, without any temptation, that every man of sense, and character, detests and despises it.

Boy, have things changed.  Do you think Washington is turning over in his grave?

Washington was an amazing man and was one of the most prolific writers if his time.  Many of the enactments of  government were initiated because if his pen.

He was a man of impeccable integrity.

Happy Birthday Mr. President.

Kathy

Insightful Nana

P.S.  My other favorite founding fathers are John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.  Abraham Lincoln is another President that I admire.

Make family meals a part of your dining routine.  Planning family meals together can reap great rewards for you and your loved ones.

Because of the hectic lives we seem to lead these days, getting the family together in the same place at the same time can be difficult.  Between work schedules, errands, and running the kids around after school we seem to have less and less time.

Owing to the fact that we are so busy, it’s hard to get together for a family meal.  Sometimes it’s just easier to stop for fast food on our way home from work.  Even then, when we get home… the family has  a tendency to eat on the fly.

Studies show that families who have sit-down meals, that have been prepared at home, benefit in several ways:

Healthy Family Meals:

Meals that are prepared at home are more likely to be balanced and nutritious.  Eating nutritious meals enhances the immune system so families ward off illness.

Children and parents have less obesity problems when they eat more family meals at home, rather than at fast food establishments and restaurants.

Family Bonding And Sharing Time:

Sitting down to a meal gives parents and children an opportunity to find out more about each other and be involved with the everyday events of each others lives.

Dad has the opportunity to share his day and plans with the entire family, rather than sharing it with mom only.

Mom can tell the family about her day at work and some of the new things she’s learned and people she’s met.  If she’s a mom who stays at home, she can share the cute things the baby did… or a new thing she has learned at the class she is taking.

Children have the chance to tell their family members about school, sports, and friends.
Young kids get so excited when it’s their turn to share.  Older kids may not show their enthusiasm, but they want to share just the same.

Opportunity To Teach:

It’s a great time to discuss current events or new ideas.  Family values can be strengthened though positive discussions.

Resolve or Prevent Potential Problems

When parents sit down to the table with their kids and discuss the events of the  day… they have the opportunity to become mindful of concerns and problems their children may have.  It’s also a good time to become aware of potential problems their kids may be facing.

It’s not advisable to discuss serious issues at the table because you child may not feel safe in discussing them in front of others.  For some matters, keep the conversation in mind and help your child at a later time.

Bottom Line:  Set aside time for at least one sit-down meal per week.  It can make a remarkable difference in your relationships with your kids.

Til Later,

Kathy Griffiths

Insightful Nana

P.S.  Often we become over-whelmed with meal planning…. I know I do.   I checked into to this Meal Planning Service several months ago and found it to be a wonderful program.   I’m proud to be an affiliate.   It’s really worth your while to check into it.

Your kids coloring pages are here.  Here are two Valentine card designs to choose from.   The  kids can color their own Valentines to surprise mom and dad,  grandma and grandpa…. or their friends.

Of course, there is the back and white printable for coloring… or they can choose the pre-colored version.  The small icon is on the back of the Valentine card.  When the card is folded, the inside will be blank so the kids can sign their names, design their own art work or put stickers inside, etc.

Pre-colored Valentine Cards

Black and White Valentine Cards

Last year, some of you may remember the “Love Notes.”  They were very popular.  If you didn’t get your “Love Notes,” they’re still available.  As long as your checking out “Love Notes” you can cash in on a making clever paper craft Valentine holders for your gifts.  You’ll get raves!

Have a great day… and make sure you run off plenty of kids coloring pages so they can make their
Valentines cards in time for an early delivery.

Til Later,

Kathy Griffiths

Insightful Nana

P.S.  For a little higher quality Valentine card, run the coloring pages on light weight photo paper.

“Stand by me world!,” is the plea we’re hearing from the people of Haiti…. and the people of the world are responding.  Planes from the United States as well as China, France and Spain have responded to the call quickly and goods are at the airport, as we speak.  Many church organizations are also sending relief.  Now the challenge is, how to get the goods out to the people.

Earlier today, my friend Andy, posted two videos on his blog concerning a project called “Playing For Change.”  In light of what’s happening in Haiti, I wanted to share one of the videos with you.

As the people of Haiti are pleading, “Stand By Me World,” each of us individually will decide how to answer that cry.  Personally,  I have my plan in mind and will execute it promptly.

Til Later,

Kathy

Insightful Nana

P.S.  Go to Andy’s site and read about, “Playing For Change.” It’s certainly is a worthwhile project.

P.P.S.  If you’re looking for a way to contribute to the relief efforts, the Red Cross is pleading for donations.  Many church organizations are also accepting donations for the cause.

The word “Challenge” is a verb as well as a noun.

The noun definition is: A call to take part in a contest,  competition or project, esp. a duel. “He accepted the challenge.”

The verb definition is: Invite (someone) to do something that one thinks will be difficult or impossible, dare:  “She challenged everyone to write a blog post every day.”

This past month I have participated in a Blog Challenge initiated by internet marketer,  Connie Regan Green. She challenged everyone who wanted to participate in the project… to blog everyday for a month. (Verb)

More than 112 people accepted the “challenge” (Noun)….However, according to Connie, only 14 to 18 will make it to the finish line. (Verb)

I’m happy to announce that I crossed the 31 day finish line today.

I have experienced several emotions during the challenge of the last 31 days.  They have ranged from excitement, to exasperation, to board-um, back to excitement and finally relief.  Do I regret accepting the challenge?  Absolutely not… and these are the reasons why.

1.  It has forced me to post to my blog daily.  Now I am motivated to take the same effort and  put it toward consistent articles and blog posts.

2.  It confirms to me that that I have the tenacity to stick to a project and complete a goal or cycle.

3.  There’s been wonderful feeling of comradeship with those who have participated.   The following terrific folks have been so supportive.  They’ve either commented on my blog, twittered my posts or both.   Sheila Atwood - Claus Jensen - Geoff Hoff - Andy Dolph - Suzie Cheel - Kelly Maria Clark -  Crystal -  Mike Shippey and of course Connie Green.

I will be tweeting and commenting on their blogs well into the future.  You should check them out too!

The journey has been rewarding!

And,  a special thanks  to Connie Regan Green… for the Challenge… it was difficult at times (because of Christmas)  … but not impossible.

Til Later,

Kathy Griffiths
Insightful Nana

P.S.  Hey… don’t invite me to participate in another challenge anytime soon…I’m going to be pretty busy spreading myself between several blogs and writing articles…. everyday.

Teaching your child the art of listening will assist him, to not only listening to you but aid him in learning to communicating with others.  Good Listening skills take practice.  It’s never too early to enlist your kids in active listening exercises.

Be An Effective Listener Yourself

Be an effective listener yourself.  It is the first key to teaching your kids the art of listening.  Turn your full attention to your child while he’s talking to you.  Look at him directly when you’re having a conversation. If you look out the window, or you’re visiting with someone else, it gives him the message you find what he has to say unimportant.

Give Simple Directions

Give age appropriate directions when you ask your child to do something. “Please, put on your shoes.” This is a simple and direct request that a young child can clearly understand and accomplish.  Again, making eye contact with her is essential for getting your point across and helping her to be an active listener.

Mean What You Say And Stay Consistent

Following through with what you say is as important as what you’ve said. In other words, don’t say something you don’t mean.  Relenting and giving in sends a message to your child that he doesn’t have to listen, nor believe what you have to say.

Sometimes Just Whisper

A fun listening activity is, changing your voice level.  If you say, “Shhhh ….Listen,” then soften your voice to a whisper, it will grab his attention immediately.  Whisper, “I love you.” Whisper directions and instructions.  The change of your voice level will often cause a child to sit up and take notice because it’s out of the ordinary.

Play Fun Listening Skill Games

To improve listening habits, play listening skill games.  A good time to play a “Listening Skill Game” is when you’re in the car. “What does the engine of our car sound like?” Let them vocalize what they hear. “Who can hear a ticking in our engine?” “The first person who can tell me the name of the song I’m singing, wins.” Also, let them ask the questions and you be on the listening end.  This type of listening game will assist your child in listening for details.

Read A Book To Your Child

Reading to your child will improve listening.  Reading directs focus from the outside world to the pages of a book.  A young child’s attention span is not be very long, so make sure the book is short. Discussing and pointing out details in the pictures will hold her interest.  If you’ve read the book before, noticed how she wants you to tell the story and talk about the details in the exact same way you did earlier? It shows you she’s been listening. Foster those listening skills by reading to your child often.

Compliment Good Listening

“Thank you for being such a good listener.” Praise is always welcome, and will reinforce your child’s desire to be a good listener. “Thank you for putting on your shoes the first time I asked you.” Small rewards, such as a hug, a kiss, a pat on the back, will reinforce your compliment.

Remember… your child is never too young to begin teaching the art of listening.

Til Later,

Kathy Griffiths
Insightful Nana

P.S.   Active listening exercises will certainly help your kids develop the art of listening.  Good listening habits are not only of value to you as a parent, but will be invaluable to your child as he grows and interacts with teachers and eventually, employers.

“Waste not want not,” as my Grandma Ella use to say.  Well, here’s a clever cooking tip for reviving stale cookies so you don’t fall into the “wasteful” category.

I did a bit of early Christmas baking in December and placed my special Oatmeal Christmas cookies in a Tupperware container and forgot about them.  When I remembered they were hidden in the laundry room, (to keep them from disappearing before the family party) they had become a bit stale.

(By the way, this Oatmeal Cookie recipe is to die for and it’s a “cooking for a crowd” size.)

Back to the cooking tip….  No worry!  Simple put into practice a simple cooking trick I learned from my Grandma Ella.   Cut a fresh apple into slices and place a few here and there in the container with the cookies and replaced the tight lid.  After about 5 or 6 hours, removed the apple slices.  The moisture from the apple slices will soften the cookies right up.

No one could tell that the oatmeal Christmas cookies were not baked that very day.

I’ve tried this cooking tip on other stale items such as cake, cake donuts and sweet loaf breads.

Try this cooking tip when you’re tempted to toss out stale cookies.  Remember….. “waste not want not.”

Til Later,

Kathy
Insightful Nana

P.S.  Don’t forget the apples slices in your container.  If you do… too much moisture from the apples will cause some of the cookies, that are in direct contact with the apples, to become a bit mushy.