Also known as peas.

On my usual morning commute to work I found myself very dissatisfied with the music that the majority of radio stations were playing, which is rather normal for me. I steer clear of rap, hip hop and the songs with non-sense lyrics, if you will (swearing, trash, sex, drugs, etc.). I recently found that I enjoy talk radio in the AM; mainly the broadcasters conversations that offer interesting, worth while information. I must have been in a rare mood this morning because even this wasn't peeking my interest.

After scanning through several stations I eventually found a topic that intrigued me. A conversation about teaching children manners. My ears perked up. I was completely engaged. The conversation began because one of the broadcasters found that he was not getting positive results from viewers when he mentioned how important it is to him that his children understand proper manners; opening a door for a lady, saying excuse me, please and thank you, etc.

I couldn't believe some of the things callers were saying. Encounters with screaming children in shopping centers, burping, farting, language. I'm sure we have all had our fare share of these types of behaviors.

You know, I could focus on the negative behavior but I'd rather focus on the positive aspects of the original radio conversation. I 100% agree with the broadcaster that talked about teaching his children to say please when asking for a snack or seconds at the dinner table. I believe it is very important to teach your children what is acceptable and what is not acceptable. Manners being one of those many things, one of those acceptable things.

He also mentioned how what are children and grand children will be is what the future will be. They are our future. It is truly up to us to build them into proper, respectful human beings so that the future population will be more positive.

I believe acts of kindness, being polite and courteous is very important. I have already began teaching E a few things. She has learned please (also known as "peas") and thank you, which is proof that starting at a very young age is possible.

What are you doing to teach your children and grand children what is acceptable and unacceptable? I would like to see what viewers have to say on this topic. Be sure to comment as others can learn from your story too.

The very first Monday Makes.

Hello readers, fans, followers, friends and family,

I want to take the time to thank each and every one of you (even if I do not know you) for following me, my story, my life. I couldn't do it (by "it" I mean life) without you. When I learn that someone reads my blog I smile really BIG. I get the warm fuzzies knowing that my story is important to not just me, but others as well.  I appreciate the comments and every single view I have received since I started writing. Especially the passed year, which as you know, has been full of downs, ups and many changes.

Speaking of changes:

You are going to start seeing a few of the changes I have been considering for awhile now. Check out this post here and this one here for more in depth detailed descriptions of why and what my intentions are.

I'd also like to add that I will be continuing to share my story because The Plain Side was never and will never really be that plain, there for it's worth sharing. But to thank my followers I'd like to offer you more of an experience when visiting my little corner of the web. Without further delay here is the first of many new additions to The Plain Side.

Drum roll, please...

Mondays will now be dedicated to what we are making...because in this crafty creative family there is always something. The features might include something I'm working on myself, what Ryan's cooking  on the stove or craft time with Maddi. Mondays will be what we are creating.  

Per request by Maddi, craft time on Sunday brought us PAINTED ROCKS. 

We have a HUGE Michigan State fan in the 

house so we added our own little twist and turned

 it into a State VS Michigan Tic-Tac-Toe game. 

Simple steps:
Collect rocks. We used flat rocks.
Rince and dry rocks.
Choose your colors and/or theme. Examples: bugs, monsters, polka dots or your favorite sports team.
Paint with acrylic paint. We painted 2 layers.
Wait to dry.
Paint a top coat of mod podge, which you can find at any craft supply store, to avoid scratching.

Playing board:
Cut felt square and 4 felt strips
Glue felt strips onto felt square with fabric glue.
Wait to dry.

Then: PLAY!

I can imagine the possibilities are endless. I hope you have fun with this kid friendly craft. If you find time to make your own I'd love to see what you come up with.

Pop in tomorrow for Tuesday's reveal!

Keep Loving.

Double sad face

I apologize for the lack of posts the passed few days. I came down with...well, something. Shakes, shivers, cold sweats, soar throat, ick, nasty, gross stuff. Since Tuesday, which I just now realize was 4 days ago, I've been resting and doing the bare minimum.

We've been struck with a heat wave here (and in several other areas). I had originally planned to enjoy the beach, pool, parks and walking as much as possible this Summer but this 90 to 100 degree weather is forcing us to stay inside where it's cool and comfortable. Atleast, I know I'm not missing out on too much being sick.

Thankfully, my mother in law was here to help me out with Edee for a couple hours. Thank you again, Diane. I know I would have some how managed to push through it but you really saved me when I was the worst. Also, I couldn't have gotten the rest and relaxing I needed without Ryan. Thank you for taking care of Edee in the middle of the week. I really appreciate your help. You make being sick just a little bit more bearable.

So, now it's antibiotics for strep throat. *double sad face* Yes, it's strep throat. Smoothies, milk shakes, hot broth and hot tea are on the menu for me. I just want it feel better. I know that giving, doing and trying my best when I am sick is not even close to when I'm at my all. And I don't think the laundry can climb any higher. So, I know it is time to get better. Besides that missing two work days is one too many.

On a more positive note:

Edee has FIVE teeth! Yes, five. My little girl has 5 teeth in her tiny little mouth. I can't believe it. I discovered #5 when she rewarded me with a big giggle after tickling her belly. Which, she will grab and squeeze when you ask, "Edee, where's your belly?" Guess what came after that? Her belly button. She had to look and poke to see exactly what it was. She is learning so quickly.

Her personality is definitely starting to show through as well. She cuddles her monkey, blankie and various other toys. I think most of the time it is because she is excited for them but sometimes I believe it is a form of affection. She recently started laying her head down on pillows, our shoulders, or even the floor. It might be just to take a rest but I think it's a form of affection as well. Whatever it is, it is so  darn adorable. I can't get enough of how sweet she looks when she just pauses for a moment and takes in the world around her.

We are looking forward to more Summer hours with Maddi. August is full of time at our house. I know she will definitely get us outside with camping, swimming, biking, etc. If this heat keeps us inside I have some craft projects planned for her too. Either way it shall be fun!

Other than that, all is well. I hope everyone is enjoying their hot, hot summer in whatever way is most refreshing!