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Navigating Co-Parenting Challenges During the Fall Holidays

Co-parenting during the fall holidays can present unique challenges as families navigate the changing seasons and the festivities that come with them. While the focus during this time is often on joy and togetherness, divorced or separated parents may find themselves grappling with the complexities of shared custody and ensuring a smooth experience for their children. In this blog post, we’ll explore some practical tips and strategies to help co-parents overcome challenges and create a positive holiday atmosphere for their children.

  1. Open Communication: Clear and open communication is key when it comes to co-parenting during the fall holidays. Start by discussing holiday plans well in advance and be willing to compromise. Establishing a cooperative and communicative relationship lays the foundation for a successful co-parenting experience. When your ex is harder to communicate with choose a mediator. Find someone who isn’t biased on either side and you can both agree that whatever the mediator decides will be the plan for that holiday. When you have difficult custody arrangements defer to your court-ordered agreement and if needed you can speak with your lawyer.

2. Create a Coordinated Schedule: Work together to create a detailed holiday schedule that outlines where the children will be during specific days or weekends. This can help avoid confusion and reduce stress for both parents and children. Share the schedule with the children as well, so they are aware of the plans. Avoid last-minute changes as much as possible. Predictability and consistency are how children will feel stable and secure during this holiday season.

3. Be Flexible and Understanding: Flexibility is crucial during the fall holidays, as unexpected events or changes in plans may arise. Be understanding of each other’s commitments and be willing to adjust the schedule if needed. Demonstrating flexibility can contribute to a more harmonious co-parenting dynamic. When you show that you can work through things with your co-parent it helps to demonstrate to your children how to work with others. Make sure that in the negotiations there is a give and take on both sides. If your co-parent isn’t good at flexibility make sure to have boundaries and stick with them.

4. Include Traditions from Both Homes: Embrace the diversity of holiday traditions by incorporating customs from both parents’ households. This not only enriches the children’s experiences but also fosters a sense of continuity and connection between both homes. Create new traditions that will be something unique to your family. This helps to bring the holiday seasons some extra connectedness by starting and continuing traditions from the past and new traditions into the future.

5. Focus on the Children’s Well-being: Keep the focus on what’s best for the children. Remember that the holidays are about creating positive memories and experiences for them. Avoid putting them in the middle of any conflicts and prioritize their emotional well-being. If you have to walk away from a situation make sure the children are safe and walk away to avoid any volatile conflicts. The important part of the holiday season is creating positive experiences for your children.

6. Celebrate Together When Possible: If circumstances allow, consider celebrating certain fall holidays together as a co-parenting unit. This can provide a sense of normalcy for the children and demonstrate to them that, despite the separation, both parents can come together for their sake. If you can put your differences aside for the time being and create a positive experience for your kids it will be so great to have positive memories to look back on!

7. Coordinate Gift-Giving: Coordinate gift-giving to avoid duplication and ensure a thoughtful and coordinated approach. Sharing information about gift ideas can also help maintain consistency and avoid potential conflicts. Try not to compete with your co-parent on who can get the most expensive present or the biggest one. Work on communicating bigger gifts to coordinate or buy them together.

8. Take Care of Yourself: Co-parenting can be emotionally challenging, especially during the holiday season. Remember to prioritize self-care and seek support from friends, family, or professionals if needed. Taking care of your well-being ultimately benefits your ability to co-parent effectively. If your children are not with you on certain parts of the holiday arrange to spend it with family or friends.

Navigating co-parenting challenges during the fall holidays requires a commitment to open communication, flexibility, and a child-centered approach. By working together and focusing on the well-being of the children, co-parents can create a positive and memorable holiday season, fostering an environment of love and stability despite the complexities of a separated family.

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Delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls

The fall can be a great time for baking all sorts of delicious treats. With the abundance of apples, this is a great time to be able to use apples in a unique way. Here’s a fun twist for a weekend treat for all those in your house hold!

Giant Apple Cinnamon Bun

This is a great fall treat for breakfast. Have this treat with a great cup of coffee!
Print Recipe
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • 1 Sauce Pan
  • Measuring Cups
  • Tablespoons and Teaspoons
  • Mixing bowl/ Kitchen Aid
  • 1 Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 Eggs

For the Filling

  • 3 large apples peeled, cored, and diced (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 2 tbs unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter is melted. Let it cool to lukewarm.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  • Add the lukewarm milk mixture and eggs to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
  • Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour until a soft dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. You may need to add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the Filling:

  • While the dough is rising, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl.

Assemble the Cinnamon Bun:

  • Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down, and roll it out on a floured surface to a large rectangle, approximately 18×24 inches.
  • Brush the melted butter over the entire surface of the dough.
  • Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough.

Roll the Dough:

  • Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one long edge.
  • Slice the log into 12 equal-sized rolls.

Bake:

  • Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake the cinnamon bun for 30-35 minutes, or until it's golden brown and the apples are soft.

Make the Glaze:

  • While the cinnamon bun is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Adjust the milk amount to achieve your desired consistency.

Finish and Serve:

  • Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon bun as soon as it comes out of the oven.
  • Serve the giant apple cinnamon bun while it's still warm and gooey.

Notes

Enjoy your delicious homemade giant apple cinnamon bun! It’s perfect for sharing and a great treat for any occasion.
Keyword apple, breakfast, cinammon rolls, fall

Tell me how this recipe made it into your weekend routines! I’d love to see how you all loved this one.

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Pumpkin Patch Adventure: A Single Moms Guide for Fall Fun!

As the leaves change colors and the air gets crisp, the arrival of autumn brings with it a world of possibilities for fun and family bonding. For single moms, it’s the perfect time to create lasting memories with your children. One of the most cherished traditions of the season is visiting a pumpkin patch. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a pumpkin patch adventure that both you and your kids will treasure.

  1. Research and Choose the Right Pumpkin Patch:

Before embarking on your fall adventure, do some research to find the perfect pumpkin patch in your area. Look for one that offers a variety of activities beyond just pumpkin picking. Many pumpkin patches have hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and more. Finding one with plenty of attractions will ensure your family’s day is full of excitement. No matter where you live you should be able to find a few pumpkin patches available to go to. Find local online groups to see if they know of the best ones to check out word of mouth can be the best way to get local information.

  1. Plan Ahead and Pack Accordingly:

Once you’ve chosen your pumpkin patch destination, it’s time to plan ahead. Check the weather forecast and dress your family in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Don’t forget to pack essentials like sunscreen, water bottles, and snacks to keep your kids energized throughout the day. And of course, a camera to capture the memories! Depending on the different activities that are located at the pumpkin patch check to make sure that they have age-appropriate activities for all your kids.

  1. Enjoy the Activities:

Pumpkin patches are more than just a place to pick pumpkins. They offer a wide range of activities that can keep kids of all ages entertained. Make sure to participate in as many as you can. From hayrides through the pumpkin fields to navigating a corn maze, there’s something for everyone. Most patches also have play areas, pony rides, and even food stands, so make the most of your visit! Make sure you have cash on hand because some places don’t have card ports for your outing.

  1. Pumpkin Picking:

The main event, of course, is picking the perfect pumpkin. Let your kids wander through the field and choose their favorite pumpkins. Encourage them to pick pumpkins of different shapes and sizes. This not only makes for a colorful collection but also allows for creativity in decorating later. Make sure that their carving pumpkin is large enough to design how they want to.

  1. Get Creative with Pumpkin Decorating:

Once you’ve picked your pumpkins, the real fun begins at home. Organize a pumpkin decorating session with your kids. From classic carving to painting, there are countless ways to make your pumpkins unique. It’s a fantastic opportunity for your children to express themselves and get into the Halloween spirit. Create memories by letting them choose how they want to decorate and carve their pumpkins. Allow them to explore the different ways they can be creative with their fall decor.

  1. Preserve the Memories:

Your pumpkin patch adventure is something you and your children will always cherish. Don’t forget to preserve the memories you’ve made by creating a scrapbook, printing photos, or sharing your experience on social media. It’s a wonderful way to relive the joy of the day and keep those moments close to your heart.

Fall is a magical time for families, and a trip to the pumpkin patch can be the highlight of the season. As a single mom, it’s an opportunity to bond with your children, create traditions, and make beautiful memories together. By researching your pumpkin patch, planning ahead, and embracing the activities, you’ll ensure a day filled with laughter, fun, and the warm glow of autumn. So, grab your kids and head to the nearest pumpkin patch for an unforgettable adventure!

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Sweet Rolls with Maple Frosting

During the fall months, I love a good warm roll on the weekends it’s so great to enjoy these when it’s cold outside with a good cup of coffee. What do you like to enjoy on cold weekend mornings?

Maple Sweet Bun Recipe

Print Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For the Filling

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

For the Maple Frosting

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture.
  • Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

  • In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Assembly

  • Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air.
  • Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
  • Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly over the dough.
  • Sprinkle the chopped nuts (if using) evenly over the buttered dough.
  • Roll the dough up tightly, starting from one long edge, to form a log.
  • Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.

Baking

  • Place the cut rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each.
  • Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and baked through.

Make the Maple Frosting

  • In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, pure maple syrup, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Frost the Sweet Buns

  • Once the buns are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes.
  • Drizzle the maple frosting over the warm sweet buns.

Serve

  • Serve the sweet buns warm and enjoy!

Notes

Here’s a great recipe for any cold weekend morning. Your family will enjoy this addition to a complete breakfast. Have fun making memories with these delicious rolls!

Let me know how these rolls go with your fall plans.

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Homemade Tomato Sauce Using Your Garden Tomatoes

If you are in the midst of harvesting season and you have an overabundance of garden tomatoes here’s a great way to use the tomatoes in your garden through the colder seasons.

Homemade Tomato Sauce From Garden Tomatoes

Print Recipe
Prep Time 2 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 0-12 large ripe tomatoes (about 5-6 pounds)
  • 2 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 Med Onion finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp Sugar (to balance acidity)
  • 2-3 fresh basil leaves or 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and remove the cores with a knife.
  • Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
  • Prepare an ice bath in a large bowl by filling it with ice and cold water.
  • Score the bottom of each tomato with a small "X" using a sharp knife.
  • Place the tomatoes in the boiling water for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until you see the skins start to peel away.
  • Using a slotted spoon, transfer the blanched tomatoes to the ice bath to cool quickly.
  • Once cooled, peel off the tomato skins. They should come off easily. Discard the skins.

Dice the Tomatoes

  • Cut the peeled tomatoes into quarters and remove the seeds and excess juice. You want to keep the flesh for the sauce.

Cook the Sauce

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add the finely chopped onions and cook for 3-5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute or until it's aromatic.
  • Add the diced tomatoes to the pot, along with salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using). You can also add basil leaves and a bay leaf at this stage for added flavor.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Simmer and Reduce

  • Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer you simmer, the thicker and richer the sauce will become.

Remove Herbs (if used)

  • If you added basil leaves or a bay leaf, remove them from the sauce once the cooking is done.

Blend (Optional)

  • If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a blender and puree until it reaches your desired consistency.

Adjust Seasoning

    Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar according to your preference.

    • Store or Use

    Let the sauce cool completely before storing it in jars or containers. You can refrigerate it for a few days or freeze it for longer storage.

      Notes

      If you are harvesting in the fall and have a bunch of tomatoes you need to do something with here’s a great way to store and use your tomatoes through the colder seasons. If you have herbs from your garden you can also add those into your recipes. Having the base sauce recipe means you can make it into whatever you want it to be. Play around with a few flavors and find the one that works best for you!
      Keyword Italian, sauce, tomatoes

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      Surviving Back-to-School Season: Tips and Tricks for Single Moms

      The back-to-school season can be a challenging time for any parent, but single moms often face unique hurdles. From managing schedules to juggling responsibilities, it’s essential to have a game plan in place. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with some valuable tips and tricks to help single moms navigate the back-to-school season successfully. As a single parent, it can be hard to have all your plates spinning at the same time so having a plan in place will ensure the smoothest transitions possible.

      1. Create a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can provide stability and structure for both you and your children. Set regular bedtimes and wake-up times, allocate specific time slots for homework, and plan meals ahead. A consistent routine can help reduce stress and chaos during the school year. Children thrive under routines and it creates safety and predictability for kids in their everyday life. Maximizing your time as a single parent is the most important and doing that with a routine is a way to ensure you get the most out of your time.

      2. Organize a Family Calendar: Use a shared family calendar, whether it’s a physical planner or a digital app, to keep track of important dates, appointments, and school events. Make sure to include your child’s school schedule, extracurricular activities, and any special occasions. If you have smaller kids you can use pictures or stickers to tell them what they should be doing and at what time. Here’s a large calendar to put in a shared family space where everyone can be on the same page.

      3. Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on your support network. Friends, family, and other single moms can provide invaluable assistance and understanding. Consider creating a support group or joining one in your community to share tips and experiences. Having people around in case of an emergency or illness is an invaluable service. Sharing responsibilities with other single moms can really be helpful especially if you have a full work schedule. Set up a couple back up plans incase your initial plans fall through.

      4. Set Realistic Expectations: As a single mom, you may not be able to do everything on your own. Be realistic about your capabilities and prioritize tasks. It’s okay to ask for help or delegate responsibilities when needed. Remember that self-care is crucial, too. There’s always a lot of pressure on parents to get involved in after-school activities or other volunteer responsibilities prioritize what will bring you energy and don’t do anything out of forced obligation. It’s important that you take care of yourself so that you have enough energy to take care of those who depend on you.

      5. Plan Meals and Snacks: Meal planning can save you time and money. Prepare weekly meal plans, and if possible, involve your children in meal prep. Opt for healthy, easy-to-make recipes that can be batch-cooked and frozen for busy weekdays. One of the most stressful things is leaving dinner plans and ideas till the end of the day when you are exhausted and don’t have the energy to do anything. On the weekend shop and plan your meals for the next week. It won’t only save you from stress it can also help you financially because you will save money by planning out your meals. Find what works best for your family, if eating dinner right when the kids get home from school and then having a snack later work then do that. If you can’t do that have the kids have a snack and then dinner. Every family will be different in the way that their needs are presented. Figure out what works best for your family and stick with it.

      6. Streamline Morning Routines: Mornings can be hectic, so streamline your routine to make them smoother. Lay out clothes pack backpacks the night before, and create a checklist for your child to follow independently. Everything that you do the night before will be one less thing you have to do in the morning. Make sure that you get a full night’s rest so that you can wake up refreshed and ready to start your day. Having a clear head ready to get the kids through the morning steps is so important. Allow for some time if there are melt downs or falling behind. If you have extra time spend it connecting with your kids over breakfast of the car ride into school .

      7. Budget Wisely: Back-to-school shopping can be expensive, so create a budget and stick to it. Look for sales, buy generic brands when possible, and consider second-hand options for clothes and supplies. Teach your child the value of money by involving them in budget discussions. One great hack is to buy school supplies after school starts. Have the school supplies stocked up for the next year. Often stores will put the school supplies up for sale pretty quickly after school starts.

      8. Communicate with Teachers: Maintain open lines of communication with your child’s teachers. Attend parent-teacher conferences, ask questions, and share any concerns or challenges your child may be facing. Collaboration with educators can lead to better academic outcomes. It can be hard to stay on top of your child’s education when you are working full time and trying to maintain home life, and their emotional, mental, and physical well-being however being in communication with your teachers will help to ensure that they are doing all the work they need to do it in the timely manner they need to. If your child is struggling in school don’t be afraid to advocate for them. Request they get tested to see if they benefit from extra support. Emphasize with your child that effort is more importance than perfect grades. If they put an effort into their work that’s what matters.

      9. Foster Independence: Encourage your children to take on age-appropriate responsibilities. Teach them to pack their own lunches, organize their school materials, and manage their homework assignments. This not only helps you but also fosters independence in your child. When they learn how to manage a few things in their lives it teaches them the skills needed to survive in the broader world. They learn how to trust themselves with decisions and it gives them the courage to take on harder tasks. Starting at home with independence is really important for them to be launched successfully into their future.

      10. Stay Positive: Positivity is contagious. Keep a positive attitude, and reassure your children that they can succeed. Offer praise and encouragement for their efforts, and be their biggest cheerleader throughout the school year. Acknowledge the hard moments and validate that it’s hard but encourage them that even though it’s hard to push through they can do it. Help them by giving sound advice and speaking hope into their dreams and their effort. Tell them that even if they fail on certain things they can learn and move on. Every failure is a moment we can learn from.

      Surviving the back-to-school season as a single mom may have its challenges, but with the right strategies and support, you can make it a successful and fulfilling time for both you and your children. Remember that you are not alone, and there are resources and communities available to help you thrive during this busy season. There’s no shame in asking for help as a single mom. It’s okay to reach out to the school, your family, and your community to make sure that your children have the best opportunity to succeed in their life.

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      Marinated Garden Tomatoes

      If you have an abundance of tomatoes during the harvest season you are probably wondering what to do with all of them. Here’s a great recipe that I love to have on hand when my tomatoes are out of control! You can use this with so many things. You can have it as a side salad, on crackers or bread, on top of eggs whatever you want. It’s a great addition to your dinner table any time of year!

      Marinated Garden Tomatoes

      Print Recipe
      Prep Time 40 minutes
      Course Appetizer
      Cuisine American

      Equipment

      • 1 Knife
      • 1 Chopping Board
      • 1 bowl

      Ingredients
        

      • 4-5 Large Ripe Tomatoes
      • 1/4 Cup Olive Oil
      • 2 Tbsp Balsamic Vinager
      • 2 Cloves of Garlic
      • 1/4 Cup Basil Cut thinly Sliced
      • Salt and Pepper
      • Optional Additions: Red Onion Slices, Mozzarella, Cheese, or crumbled Feta Cheese for extra flavor.

      Instructions
       

      • Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and dry the tomatoes. Slice them into thick rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. If using different colors of tomatoes, arrange them on a serving platter for a visually appealing presentation.
      • Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and half of the sliced fresh basil. Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
      • Marinate the Tomatoes: Drizzle the prepared marinade over the sliced tomatoes. Make sure the marinade evenly coats the tomatoes. If desired, you can also add red onion slices at this stage for extra flavor. Gently toss the tomatoes to ensure they are well coated with the marinade. Allow the tomatoes to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
      • Add Cheese (Optional): If you'd like to add cheese to your marinated tomatoes, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or add mozzarella cheese slices on top of the tomatoes.
      • Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the remaining fresh basil leaves on top of the tomatoes as a garnish.
      • Serve: Marinated garden tomatoes are best served fresh, at room temperature. They make a wonderful side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a summer salad.

      Notes

      Remember, this dish is highly customizable. You can experiment with different types of tomatoes, herbs, or additional ingredients like olives, capers, or even a drizzle of honey for added complexity of flavor. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, and have fun creating your own variation of marinated garden tomatoes.
      Keyword appetizer, garden, marinated, tomatoes

      Enjoy this fun recipe and let me know what you eat with it!

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      Fall Family Traditions: How to Create Meaningful Moments as a Single Mom

      As the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisp, fall offers a perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories with your children. Being a single mom doesn’t mean you can’t embrace the beauty of the season and establish cherished family traditions. In this blog post, we’ll explore some heartwarming fall family traditions you can start and enjoy together, even as a single parent. This season is one of my favorites to create memories. There are many opportunities to make memories and create traditions during the fall.

      1. Leaf Pile Adventures:
        • Gather leaves from your yard or a nearby park.
        • Create a giant leaf pile and let your kids jump in.
        • Capture the joy on their faces with photos or videos.
        • Afterward, enjoy hot cocoa and share stories.

      2. Pumpkin Carving Night:

      • Visit a local pumpkin patch to pick out the perfect pumpkins.
      • Set up a pumpkin carving station at home.
      • Let your kids express their creativity by designing their own jack-o’-lanterns.
      • Display the finished pumpkins on your doorstep for all to see.

      3. Apple Picking Adventure:

      • Find an orchard nearby and go apple picking.
      • Turn the apples into homemade pies or applesauce together.
      • Incorporate a fun twist by having an apple-themed cooking contest.

      4. Fall Nature Hikes:

      • Explore local nature trails or parks with your kids.
      • Collect fallen leaves, pinecones, or acorns.
      • Use your nature finds for autumn-themed craft projects later.

      5. Cozy Movie Nights:

      • Set up a cozy movie night with blankets and pillows.
      • Select family-friendly fall movies or Halloween classics.
      • Enjoy popcorn and snacks while watching together.

      6. DIY Halloween Costumes:

      • Encourage your kids to brainstorm and create their own costumes.
      • Help them gather materials and unleash their creativity.
      • This can be a fun and budget-friendly activity.

      7. Fall Baking Bonanza:

      • Spend an afternoon baking fall-inspired treats.
      • Try making pumpkin bread, apple crisp, or cinnamon rolls.
      • Let your children be involved in the kitchen, even with simple tasks.

      8. Fall Decor Crafting:

      • Decorate your home together with homemade fall decorations.
      • Create autumn-themed wreaths, paper lanterns, or candleholders.
      • These decorations can become cherished keepsakes.

      9. Gratitude Journaling:

      • Begin a family gratitude journal.
      • Each day, have everyone write down something they are thankful for.
      • Reflect on your entries together as a family.

      10. Visit a Fall Festival:

      • Check out local fall festivals and events in your area.
      • Enjoy carnival rides, games, and delicious fall treats.
      • Participate in community activities as a family.

      Fall is a season filled with opportunities for bonding, creating cherished memories, and starting family traditions. As a single mom, you have the unique privilege of shaping these experiences for your children. Embrace the beauty of the autumn season and use these traditions as a way to strengthen your family’s bond and make lasting memories together. Fall is a time for love, warmth, and the joy of being together, and with these traditions, you can create meaningful moments that your family will treasure for years to come.

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      Delicious Sourdough Discard Doughnuts

      Here’s a great recipe for some delicious sourdough discard doughnuts! If you are on the sourdough journey here’s a fun recipe you have to try.

      Sourdough Discard Doughnuts

      Here is a great recipe for the sourdough discard doughnuts!
      Print Recipe
      Prep Time 2 hours
      Course Breakfast
      Cuisine American
      Servings 6

      Equipment

      • 3 mixing bowls
      • 1 Measuing Cups
      • Parchment paper
      • doughnut cutter
      • 1 whisk
      • 1 Mixing Spoon
      • 1 baking sheet
      • 1 deep fryer or deep pot
      • 1 slotted spoon

      Ingredients
        

      • 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed)
      • 1/4 cup Milk (anytype)
      • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
      • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
      • 1 large egg
      • 2 cups all-purpose flour
      • 1/2 tsp salt
      • 1/2 tsp baking soda
      • 1/2 tsp baking powder
      • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

      For the Glaze

      • 1 cup Powdered sugar
      • 2-3 tbsp milk or water
      • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

      Instructions
       

      • In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, melted butter, milk, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
      • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
      • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough gently until it comes together.
      • Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out doughnut shapes. You can use a smaller cutter to remove the centers if desired, creating classic doughnut shapes.
      • Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rest for about 15-20 minutes while you heat the oil.
      • Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches and maintains the correct temperature.
      • Carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or a spider strainer, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
      • While the doughnuts are cooling slightly, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or water, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth glaze. Adjust the thickness by adding more liquid if needed.
      • Dip each doughnut into the glaze while they are still warm, then place them on a wire rack to allow any excess glaze to drip off.
      • Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade sourdough discard doughnuts!

      Notes

      Feel free to get creative with toppings, such as sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even a dusting of cinnamon sugar, to customize your doughnuts to your liking.
      Keyword american, breakfast, discard, doughnuts, glaze, glazed doughnuts, sourdough

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      Tips for Building Strong and Healthy Relationships with Your Children as a Single Mom

      Being a single mom can be a challenging journey, but it’s also one of the most rewarding roles in life. As a single mother, you play a crucial role in your children’s lives, providing love, support, and guidance. Building strong and healthy relationships with your children is essential for their well-being and development. In this blog post, we’ll explore some valuable tips to help you nurture these relationships and create lasting bonds with your kids. It can be hard to carve out time in your busy schedule to have time with your kids but the most important thing that we can give our children is our time. It’s the most limited resource that we have and the most valuable.

      1. Prioritize Quality Time

      In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in work, chores, and other responsibilities. However, one of the most crucial aspects of building a strong relationship with your children is spending quality time with them. Set aside dedicated time for activities that you both enjoy, whether it’s reading together, playing games, or going for a walk in the park. This quality time will create lasting memories and strengthen your connection. Try and insert traditions and vacations that will create memories for years to come.

      1. Open and Honest Communication

      Effective communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Create a safe and open environment where your children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with you. Listen actively and without judgment, and encourage them to express themselves honestly. This will help you understand their needs and concerns and build trust. Communication is a skill that must be worked on. Learning how your child best communicates and how you communicate will help to bridge the gaps. Also allow other safe trusted adults to have input into your child’s life. Sometimes when parents have a hard time being heard having another adult saying it a different way might help.

      1. Be Present

      In our digital age, it’s easy to be physically present but mentally absent. Put away your devices and give your children your full attention when you’re together. Show them that they are your top priority, and they will feel valued and loved. Screen time is a good activity to limit especially around meal times and family scheduled outings. Being present and having those memories can be robbed if there isn’t intentional putting aside of the devices. Practice active listening when you are present with your child so they get the feeling of being heard and present.

      1. Consistency and Routine

      Children thrive on routine and predictability. Establishing consistent daily routines can provide stability and security, especially during challenging times. This helps your children know what to expect and reduces anxiety. Being a single parent can be hard when there’s not a lot of consistency. There will be unavoidable things that will happen but over all having familiar places you go or familiar things you like to do will help to bring the confort that consistency can have on your family. Children are comforted by the predictability of life and having a routine helps them to have a little control in a world where they might not have control.

      1. Lead by Example

      As a single mom, you are your children’s primary role model. Demonstrate the values and behaviors you want them to adopt. Whether it’s kindness, responsibility, or resilience, your actions speak louder than words. Having a good example for children to follow also includes self talk around body image and finces. Putting goals on paper and achieving them also helps our kids to see that no matter how hard life is you can still make your dreams comes true. Freedom is on the otherside of discipline as Jack Gyllhaal says. Have a vision for your body, dreams, education, and finances. Include your children in those dreams and help them to dream too. There’s power in seeing your dreams come true it gives us hope.

      1. Encourage Independence

      While it’s essential to be involved in your children’s lives, it’s equally important to foster their independence. Encourage them to make age-appropriate decisions and solve problems on their own. This empowers them and builds their self-esteem. This independence is wonderful as long as you are aware of parentifying your child. As single parents it’s easy to put adult responsabilites beyond their years on our child out of necessity. Remaining the adult in the house is very important while giving them age approtiate responsabilities. It can be very easy espcially when you have a very responsible child to turn them into an adult sounding board or give them parent like responsabilites but this will rob them of their childhood. Encourage them to take on age appropriate tasks and chores that will help them grow and learn.

      1. Celebrate Achievements

      Celebrate your children’s successes, no matter how small they may seem. Praise their efforts and accomplishments to boost their self-confidence and motivation. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building their self-esteem. As a single parent it can often be hard to get to game, plays or award ceremonies but it’s important that even in the little things that we celebrate children and what they have accomplished. Make sure that you balance this with celebrating effort. Not always do our efforts pay off in sucess but effort is itself a success. Celebrate your children during the mundade tasks and the efforts made.

      1. Seek Support

      Being a single mom can be overwhelming at times. Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your challenges and experiences with others who understand can provide valuable insights and emotional support. If you don’t have a support system look on-line or in your local community for groups that are specifically designed to support single parents. In this very independant culture we often feel disconnected but there are avenues to get connected to communites of other single parents around you.

      1. Self-Care

      Remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s essential for your well-being and your children’s. Ensure you get enough rest, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and seek professional help if needed. When you are physically and emotionally healthy, you can better support your children. When you are on an airplane they always say to put your mask on first before helping your fellow passanger the reason being if you pass out then you won’t be able to help anyone. Same thing applies for us a single parents if you don’t take care of yourself you will have no energy or brain power to take care of your child or children. Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish it’s useful for your over all function as a single parent.

      1. Flexibility and Adaptability

      Life is unpredictable, and challenges will arise. Being a single mom may involve juggling multiple responsibilities. Stay flexible and adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining your commitment to your children’s well-being. Being able to process life with friends or family is key to managing flexibility and adaptability. The reason that it can be hard being a single parent is often times we have lots of decisions to make with no real sounding board. Learn to process life in a way that will help you make clear and wise decisions.

      Building strong and healthy relationships with your children as a single mom requires time, effort, and dedication. By prioritizing quality time, open communication, consistency, and self-care, you can create lasting bonds with your children that will support their growth and development. Remember that you are not alone on this journey, and seeking support when needed is a sign of strength. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the joys, and cherish the unique connection you share with your children. The value that you have for your children shows in how you show up for yourself and for them in the every day life things. Make sure to give yourself a break every now and then as well.

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