It’s hard to be a parent during the winter. By this point in the season, most of the methods you use to entertain your kids (and get them out of your hair for a minute) are starting to get stale – it’s too wet or cold to go outside, they’ve watched all their movies several times over, and they’ve just emptied the toy bins again. Read on for some fresh ideas to help combat your kids’ cabin fever.

By Elaine Pace

I am of a mixed mind when it comes to St. Valentine’s Day.  On one hand, it is commercialized and I like to think we celebrate the love we have for others daily and don’t need a retail reminder.  On the other hand, it can be a lot of fun if you put some thought into it and don’t approach it like a chore.

Valentines Day has a reputation for catering to star-struck soul mates. Make this year different by taking time to show a little more love to the kids. Kids don’t need much—just time.

This year, start meal preparation early and let them help with the cake. Don’t worry if it isn’t beautiful, the memory will be.

I can't believe we are already into the second month of 2013!  We've got a another great guest pinner for you follow during February, Kelli Wilson. 

Yes, that’s right – it’s the dark, cold month of February, and it’s already time to start thinking about your vacation.

We've got a great giveaway this week!  We're giving away two bundles of items from Knock Knock.  Check out what's included in the bundles below and make sure to enter.  We'll announce the two winners on Friday, February 8, 2013.

Knock Knock Bundle #1

Ever feel like EVERYONE is more organized than you are?  Keeping your schedule under control is a chore by itself.  Maintaining your schedule and your family’s schedule can seem impossible.  It’s overwhelming to think about and I appreciate all the help I can get, which is why I love the e-book “Project Organize You

Remember when curfew was a big deal. We even had public service announcements at 10 p.m., “Parents, it’s 10 O’clock. Do you know where your children are?”

If your house were on fire, what would you try to save? It’s an interesting question – and it helps identify whether something can be classified as clutter. It’s all too easy to keep broken, old, or rarely-used things with thin justifications. Check your life for these clutter items:

It’s the middle of January, and schools across America are starting new semesters. For younger kids, it’s time for report cards, while your older teenagers also return with new classes and new daily schedules.