Mother-in-Laws

Did that title get your attention? I've been searching for the MOPS article I read years ago that truly changed my relationship with my in-laws. No kidding- MOPS saved me there...well, that and intense therapy sessions with Jan & Bunny. The article basically said that you have to look with love on these people. All the in-law panels tell us to remember that your MIL did something right by raising the man you fell in love with. That is a good reminder, but whatever article I read went deeper. It stressed that you need to just let go of all the things that drive you crazy and just look with love. That was my mantra for at least a year (and sometimes still). Our panel this year was two of Jan and Bunny's friends, Norma Basford and Anne McAfee. They seem like amazing MILs with excellent understanding of boundaries. That seemed to be the key. Open communication, it might be tough at first. But, in the end it will really help your relationship so everyone is on the same page. Lots of great questions- even with some hoping for a better relationship with their mother. It was another great meeting- and man, those breakfast casseroles were awesome!
Jan introducing Norma and Anne while snuggling Grace. What a rockstar mentor mom!

I had to take a picture of Simmons. I hadn't seen her in so long! There she is, hiding behind Talley and listening intently. 

The handout. I love the "take a step back"
Vanessa's Twinkling Treasures hosted this month's girls night. It was a relaxing night at Vanessa's. No one got in the hot tub, but some moms got massages from a massage therapist who was there! There were super fun play dates, too! Lunch at Chuck E Cheese, candy making at Sweet Petes and a play date at Tammy's house. Elizabeth is really rocking these play dates! Awesome job!
Relaxing night at Vanessa's

Keeping Our Starry Eyes

Even though we only have one meeting in December, we keep still put out lots of activities. Don't feel pressured to go to everything. But there's definitely something going on for everyone to help through this whole parenting thing. We went caroling at an assisted living facility and a nursing home. We also did a Christmas craft play date at the Riverside Art Center.

Christmas crafts
We also had the MOPS & POPS Christmas party at the Hollands. It's always fun getting the guys together. Awesome Mojo's BBQ, pudding shots and lots of fun!
A sleeping baby crashed the party
We had our first meeting of 2017 with a "live google" meeting. We asked each other parenting questions. Potty training was a huge hit. Jane Iredale mineral make-up was a suggestion if you're looking for something new. Also the book Are you Fully Charged, for figuring out a balance in your life. Jan did a fabulous mentor moment, reminding us to stay positive and think of all the good things in our lives. Back to those starry eyes!
Happy Birthday to our January stars!

Live Google!
Great article from Jan!


A little something to remember from Bunny
 This Friday was a super fun play date at my house. We took turns on the paddleboat to see the manatees. It was a gorgeous day to be outside. I think everyone had a great time spending the day together. Such a happy Friday!
Paddleboating