Melissa
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On the article Chowdown Showdown: French Fries
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On the article Event Planning and New Year's Resolutions
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On the article Mom's Talk: How to Teach Your Kids Manners
Melissa
7:47 am on Thursday, May 12, 2011
ReplyI agree with Angela, Tara and others who question #6 and the idea of repressing feelings, never saying no, or pretending as good "manners". There are polite ways to decline foods or invitations, as Angela and Elizabeth point out. I tell my 5 and 3 year old that they can say "no thank you" if offered food that they don't like but they can't say "yuck" about the food or any other food that someone at the table is eating (usually my food!). Some manners, such as commenting on someone's weight or appearance ("gee, grandpa, you have a big tummy"), is developmental - they will eventually learn what is appropriate. The idea of repressing feelings or pretending is particularly troubling for girls - I urge moms of girls to read "The Curse of the Good Girl: Raising Authentic Girls with Courage and Confidence" by Rachel Simmons. As many of you have pointed out, adults' manners have deteriorated, particularly when it comes to technology use. Kids learn by watching us; the most important thing for parents to do is model good manners.
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On the article Barrington Area Lawmaker Reacts to Death Penalty Decision
Melissa
8:44 am on Friday, March 11, 2011
ReplyEconomic concerns about the cost of life in prison should never override the truth we now know - innocent people have been executed and put on death row. While I cannot speak for them, it is fair to assume that, as painful as their experience must be, victims' families do not want a potentially innocent person put to death. (As the Innocence Project and others have shown, confessions and evidence are not always what they seem.) The moral argument against the death penalty is clear; the money argument also is clear: Research consistently shows that it is considerably more expensive to execute than imprison for life. In other words, the cost of capital trials and appeals as well as execution itself is often if not always higher than life imprisonment. Whether concerned most about morals or money, tax payers should be relieved by Governor Quinn's decision.
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On the article Moms Talk: Should You Bribe Your Kids?
Melissa
8:40 am on Thursday, March 3, 2011
ReplyOne question we can ask ourselves is what is the difference between a bribe and a reward? A reward is earned, so useful for potty training (stickers worked for me before my oldest discovered candy) and age-appropriate rewards for older kids(mine are still preschoolers so no ipod requests yet). A bribe seems more like the "here's a cookie now go play and let me finish". With the bribe, the treat comes before the behavior, and the behavior may or may not be exhibited. But the lines between bribe and reward may be blurred, especially for kids. I am trying to stay away from food as a reward but so far not too successful at that, probably due to my own love of sweets! I am also trying to avoid new toys/purchased items as rewards as that starts to affect the budget. Any ideas about non-monetary rewards (or bribes!) out there?
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On the article Frugal Family: Food & Spa Deals
Melissa
7:13 am on Wednesday, February 16, 2011
ReplyThere is a free wine tasting at Park Avenue Wine Bar (205 Park Avenue) tonight (Weds 2/16) from 5:30-7 pm.
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On the article Patch Picks: Romantic Dinner Options for Valentine's Day
Melissa
8:34 am on Friday, February 11, 2011
ReplyOne more excellent local, family-owned pick is Park Avenue Wine Bar, in the heart of downtown Barrington (205 Park Avenue; 847-382-3900). With its one year anniversary coming up next month, Park Avenue is becoming known for its sophisticated yet friendly dining and drinking environment. The menu features both classic and cutting edge items, with an emphasis on fresh local and sustainable ingredients.
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On the article Moms Talk: Playtime During Cold Spells
Melissa
2:46 pm on Wednesday, February 9, 2011
I am one of those moms , Morgan - I try to get the kids out every day - there are very few days I would say are too cold to play outside, if only for a few minutes to look at icicles (I have preschoolers who love them), walk the dog or dig a snow cave. We went out today for about 20 minutes and their cheeks were red but they had fun, burned some of that endless engery and enjoy the hot chocolate treat afterwards. Sometimes if feels like it takes longer to get them dressed than we might stay outside, but it is worth it. A little fresh air does wonders for a break in the day!
The many other hours can be filled with all the great suggestions so far that all ages can enjoy - reading, art, baking and cooking. I have a stash of new art supplies, including random things I've save that they can create with. My kids also love the bathtub. Instead of a bath before bed they sometimes have a fun bath in the middle of the day.
Melissa
12:41 pm on Monday, February 27, 2012
Truffle fries at Park Avenue Wine Bar & Restaurant!