Hellloooo Inner B!  I jumped at the chance to try out their Mum Organiser*.  Here are 5 things I LOVE about it:

1. It’s robust.  I give my things a pretty good workout, and this diary is in and out of my bag several times a day. It’s really well made, the binder is strong, and I’m confident it will go the distance!
2. It’s refillable.  Next year’s diary will only set me back $16.95 which is the cost of the 2013 refills.
3. It’s pretty.  I know that sounds shallow, but a visually appealing diary does help me to approach daily tasks more positively.  The Mum Organiser comes in three fresh shades.  No cutesy cartoons or tacky taglines here. Just good design and happy colour.
4. It’s well thought out.  I really like the monthly dividers, and the monthly overview at the start of each section. I also appreciate the week to a double page layout.  I cope with my insanely ridiculously busy schedule much better when I can easily scan a month or a week at a time.   The business card pockets at the front are great, plus I’m glad there’s space for a pen to permanently live in my diary.
5. It’s made for me.  Well, not me exactly… but it is made for mums, with special consideration for things mums tend to write in their diaries.  And it is made for those Down Under, with Australian and New Zealand school holidays and public holidays marked. (Yay!)

The only small criticism I have for the Inner B Mum Organiser is that it is a little tricky to write close to the binder rings – but then again, without the binder it wouldn’t be refillable.  All in all I think this is a great product, particularly for mums like me who juggle part time work with full time parenting.

To celebrate Mothers Day this weekend, I have one Mum Organiser to give away valued at $44.95 thanks to the amazing Valerie Petersen at Inner B.  All you have to do is leave a comment sharing why YOU need a Mummy Organiser!  

Competition is open to Aussie residents only. One entry per person please. Winner will be drawn at random on Sunday 20/5/12 8pm Qld time.

If you’re interested in other great products from Inner B, check out the notepads, planners and journals here. You can also find Inner B on facebook and twitter.  You’re welcome

*I received an Inner B Mum Organiser free of charge for review purposes and the usual admin fee applied to this post.

But the truth is, most of the time, I’m not so together.

The kids aren’t always happy. The bickies aren’t always home-baked. The floors aren’t always swept.

It’s highly likely I can’t find my keys, or my phone, or my shoes, or my brain.

Fortunately, I know that God doesn’t need me to be perfect.

In fact – He often uses my weaknesses more than my strengths.

This song by Christian artist and young mum Francesca Battistelli always puts a smile on my face and reminds me to get some perspective. After all, it’s not the end of the world!  

“It might not be what I would choose, but this is the stuff you use.”

(Francesca Battistelli)

MILO sent the SquiggleKids a fantastic play kit (final photo) to use in the backyard – and I’ve got one play kit to give away to a lucky SquiggleMum reader as well!  The kit contains soccer nets, cones, a selection of different balls and even a ball pump for your kids to use outside, plus a couple of tins of MILO.

So of course, you know what my kids have had the most fun with, don’t you…?  The tins!!  

Kids have been inventing games with MILO tins for as long as MILO has been around. The labels might have changed, but not much else has. Here are 5 activities that are sure to bring back memories, and your own kids might like them too:

1.  Tin can stilts

2. Tin can telephone

3. Tin can bucket (on pulley rope)

4. Tin can bowling

5. Tin can drums

The kids have had SO much fun playing with a couple of tins. Sometimes I think commercial toys are entirely overrated.  That said, they were also pretty excited about this stuff:

To win your own play kit thanks to MILO, just leave a comment below sharing what your kids like to play with in the backyard. Do they prefer sports-type activities? Imaginary games? Or creating their own fun with un-toys like mine?  [One entry per person please. Australian and New Zealand residents only. Winner drawn at random on Monday 23/4/12 8pm Qld time.]

Disclaimer: I receive payment for consulting services as a MILO Play Ambassador, and received the MILO Play Kit free of charge.

* THIS COMPETITION HAS NOW CLOSED*

Congratulations to the winner, Cherie!

The first thing that happened was that a young mum from our church passed away.  The kids understandably had some questions…

• Mummy why are you sad?
• What is a funeral?
• What happens when people die?

The second thing that happened was that two of our Gouldian Finch eggs hatched.  The pair had been sitting on four tiny eggs.  Unfortunately a common behaviour of Gouldians is to “pitch” their young.  For a range of reasons, the parents toss their own chicks out of the nest.  Sadly our finches pitched their two chicks, and despite our attempts to return them to the nest, we were unable to save them.  The other two eggs did not hatch.  Again, the kids had questions:

• Why did they throw their babies?
• Why didn’t the other eggs hatch?
• Should we bury them?
• Why is nature so unfair?
• Why do some creatures live and some die?

I don’t have all the answers to questions about life and death, but I answered the kids to the best of my ability, at an age appropriate level, according to what I believe.  It is unfair, isn’t it? Sometimes Gouldians pitch their young because the chicks aren’t healthy, and sometimes because they just aren’t ready to be parents yet.  (Aren’t you glad I’m not a Mummy Finch?! I would never pitch you.)  I don’t know why the other two eggs didn’t hatch. Perhaps they didn’t grow properly inside, or maybe the parents didn’t keep them warm enough.  It’s hard to understand, but it’s important to remember that everything that lives – dies one day.  Yes, we can bury them together.  Let’s dig a little hole… 

And thirdly, this weekend is Easter.  Today is Good Friday, the day we reflect on Jesus’ death on the cross.  Sunday is coming, the day we celebrate His resurrection.  And the kids have questions:

• Why isn’t it called Bad Friday?
• Why did Jesus die?
• When can we have Easter eggs?!

 Feel free to leave a link to your own Easter - Growing In God post in the comments.

• all living things have a common name and scientific name
• every different type of living thing has its own special scientific name
• scientific names have two words (usually)
• scientific names have funny words that sound different to every-day words
• animals that are similar might have similar names (eg: first word the same, second word different)

So this week, when we discovered an unusual species of fungi in the yard, I asked the kids this question…

If you were the first scientist to discover this amazing species, what would you call it?

I know – weird, right?!  We discussed its unusual shape, vibrant colour, pungent smell, and “tentacles” while thinking of a name.  Miss 5 said the first word should be Fungus (based on her understanding of scientific names).  Maybe Fungus Octopus? What about Fungus Redstar or Fungus Crazy?  

And then… the game was on!  Armed with a clipboard, crayon and magnifying glass, the kids set about making up names for other fungi they found around the backyard.  They made their own signs and took careful photos of their discoveries.

Here are the, ahem, un-scientific names of species as decided by the SquiggleKids:

Fungus Orangey

Fungus Rosy (named and written by Mr 3)

Fungus Goldiae

Fungus Umbrellus

The kids ran with this activity because it was of interest to them.  (Not all kids would find fungi so fascinating!)  Even my three year old wanted to “write” his own sign, and I loved seeing his purposeful scribble.  This kind of scribble is early writing at its finest.  I especially liked my daughter’s Fungus Umbrellus.  We discussed how the word umbrella sounded like an everyday word, but umbrellus sounded like a “science” word.

Both kids were so proud of their efforts too, and couldn’t wait to show SquiggleDad their discoveries. I think I have a couple of young naturalists on my hands!

You may also enjoy reading:

• Identifying Birds Eggs
• Fantastic Fungus
• Watching Nature Unfold

…which of course lead us into a discussion about Narelle’s award winning picture book, Fox and Fine Feathers, with her signature linocut illustrations.

Lyrebird, Coucal, Pitta and Nightjar are birds of the forest floor. Although as different as groundbirds can be, they always look out for danger and warn each other to hide. One day, Lyrebird, Coucal and Pitta forget to look out for Fox. Only Nightjar is watching. Can he warn the others in time?

We loved learning more about these four beautiful Australian rainforest birds from the story:

• Superb Lyrebirds are incredibly shy creatures.  They are rarely seen, but often heard as they mimic the calls of other birds.  Males have long, intricate tail feathers.
• Pheasant Coucals are sizeable black and brown birds. They are not particularly adept at flying, so prefer to run after their prey.
• Noisy Pittas are brightly coloured little rainforest birds.  They hop about in the undergrowth, and although quite common are not often seen.
• Long-tailed Nightjars are masters of disguise.  Their feathers are perfectly camouflaged amongst the leaf litter during the day while they sleep.

Courtesy of Narelle Oliver herself, I have a SIGNED copy of Fox and Fine Feathers for one lucky SquiggleMum reader.  To enter, simply leave a comment below and tell me an Australian bird that your kids have seen in your area.  (It’s a great excuse to  look out for birds this week…)  One entry per person, Aussie residents only, comp closes Sun 18/3/12 8pm Qld time.

PS – If you adore Narelle’s work, prints from the book are available at the gorgeous Marks and Gardner gallery online, or at their beautiful premises on Mt Tamborine.  Tell them SquiggleMum sent you

*I received a copy of the book from Narelle Oliver, but did not receive payment for this post.

_____________________________________________

This competition has now closed. Congratulations Judith.

You are the winner of a signed copy of Fox and Fine Feathers!

Jeremiah 29:11 is a well known and much loved Bible verse, and it’s been on my heart this week.  You see, all of my plans have gone out the window, and God’s plan has fallen into place in a remarkable way.

When things go right, some people say that “the planets have aligned.”

Others say things are an “amazing coincidence”

I say it’s God.

(image: free printable from Frugal & Focused)

In a couple of weeks I will be returning the work force in a part-time capacity.  I wasn’t actively looking for a job. The job found me, and the process has been incredibly smooth.  It’s a great job working with families and picture books (two of my favourite things).  I’m delighted to be able to promote the importance of reading in the early years throughout the community.  I’ll fill you in on more of the job details soon.

The thing is, this wasn’t my plan. My plan was to do a bit of supply teaching, or return to the classroom in a year or two when my youngest reaches school age too.  I like making my own plans. I like to feel in control.  But if I’d stuck with my plan, I would have missed this wonderful opportunity!

His plan fills me with hope for the future.  His plan is good.

This post is part of the Growing In God series.  If you would like others to visit your post, just leave a link in the comments below!  Feel free to use the Growing In God image on your post if you wish.

Me: I think that’s a cicada nymph.  Can you see the shell underneath? We sometimes find empty cicada shells, don’t we? It looks like this little guy didn’t quite make it out.  

A few minutes later…

Miss 5: Mum, I don’t think he’s dead after all. He’s moving!

Me: You’re right! He’s pulling himself up to the tree now, and I think those wings are getting bigger.

Miss 5: Now his whole body has come out of the shell.

Me: Wow, look how his abdomen curls out like that. It really IS weird and cool. You were right.

Miss 5: I know.

Me: Whoa! Check out his wings!

Miss 5: Are they growing?

Me: No, I think they are just getting bigger as they are drying out. See how they are wrinkly and curled up? I think they need to be all smooth before he can fly.

Miss 5: Butterflies have to wait for their wings to dry before they can fly too.

Me: Good thinking. I wonder if all flying insects have to wait for their wings to dry…?

Miss 5: Do you think his wings are ready now Mum?

Me: I don’t know. I guess we’ll have to keep watching.

Miss 5: He’s crawling away from his shell now.

Me: Maybe he’s not quite ready for flying yet…

Mr 3: I can get him and “fly” him for you if you like

Miss 5 and Me: NO!!!

An hour later…

Me: Dinner time kids. Time to come inside now.

Miss 5: But I want to see him fly away.

Me: Let’s take one last photo before the sun sets. Can you see how his wings are much closer to his body now?

Miss 5: Before they were out flat.

Me: I think he will stay there now until it’s dark, and fly away in the night.

Miss 5: I’ll check if he’s gone in the morning…

________________________________________________

If you have a child who is into bugs, you might like to watch the following 5min documentary snippet from Sir David Attenborough about the life cycle of cicadas in America.  (Stop it at the 4min mark if you aren’t ready to explain what the male and female adult insects are doing together…)  In Australia, our cicadas don’t emerge on mass the same way – but they are still pretty noisy!

Other SquiggleMum posts about kids observing nature:

• Backyard Lifecycles
• Bug Hunt
• Fantastic Fungus
• Googling The Great Outdoors

Today the Moreton Bay Regional Libraries launched the Read Up program for under 8s.  To encourage kids to visit their local library and borrow on their own card, the Read Up program rewards children with special certificates designed by some of Queensland’s best illustrators.

Two of these amazing illustrators, Peter Carnavas and Narelle Oliver, were both at the launch today.

I have reviewed several of Pete’s books before, and always rate them highly.  Peter spent time with the kids at the launch today teaching them how to draw an illustration.  He explained that if you can draw a circle, a line and a dot – you can draw anything!    It was wonderful to watch a bunch of kids drawing comical sharks together.  Even my 3yr old had a go!  Peter also talked with the kids about how an illustration has to involve more than simply a character.  An illustration must tell the story.  Check out the “story” below…

It was such a delight to also meet award winning illustrator Narelle Oliver.  I have long been a fan of Narelle’s work as it often focuses on Australian animals in their natural habitats.  Her linocut prints are a distinctive trademark, and provide a wonderful opportunity to talk with kids about different ways artists create their illustrations.

Miss 5 was so excited when Narelle pulled a stowaway Thingamajig out of her bag, as this creature currently features all over her classroom wall at school!  The Very Blue Thingamajig was relieved to find that yes, he IS on one of the Read Up certificates.  The five Read Up certificates are beautifully designed artworks in their own right, and definitely worth collecting.  In addition to Narelle and Peter, the other contributing artists are Kerry Argent, Gregory Rogers, and Clare McFadden.

Your local library really is a treasure trove of top quality Australian picture books.  These amazing certificates might be just the inspiration you your children need to head to the library this week. Happy reading!

Other literacy related posts you might enjoy:

• Interview with Peter Carnavas
• Review of “The Great Expedition” by Peter Carnavas
• Loving Your Library Time

The start of the day can be harrowing, especially if you have kids of different ages who need to get to different places!  The only way I know of getting everyone out of the door on time and with everything they need, is to establish good routines and stick to them.  Routine charts can be incredibly helpful for a child’s growing independence.  Young kids who can manage a few steps independently in the morning, become kids who are responsible for their own school materials, and then become teens who are capable of managing their own timetables.

I chatted with Liam, Robbie and Jo on air this morning about routine charts on Brisbane’s 96Five.  If you missed it, check out the podcast!

Summary points:

• Don’t confuse reward charts with routine charts
• Move from photographs, to pictorial symbols, to words and symbols, then finally to timetables
• Keep it age appropriate (a 4 year old can probably manage a 4 step morning routine… a 6 year old can manage 6 steps)
• Remember that the aim is independence! Let them be responsible for their tasks.

There are three ways to go about starting off a new routine chart for your child.  You can make it yourself from scratch, use one that others find works for them, or buy a ready-made one.  The advantage of making your own is that you can truly personalise it for your child.  Photos are especially effective for young kids.  Take a photo of the breakfast cereal, the kindy bag, the school uniform, the sunscreen… whatever!

If you’d like to use a routine chart from other mums, try one of these:

Childhood101 – I highly recommend Christie’s FREE printable routine cards for young kids. Photos ready to go!

Living Locurto – This simple set of 4 FREE routine cards for young ones is print-ready.

The Organised Housewife – Print out Katrina’s FREE morning or evening routine chart for primary school kids.

Buttoned Up – Try this FREE weekly schedule for kids in middle school. Laminate it, then fill it out together at the start of each week with a fine whiteboard marker.

Little Billies – I reviewed these charts a couple of years ago but sadly they are no longer available

(Photographic routine cards from Childhood 101)

Do you use routine charts in your home? What works for you? Know of another printable worth sharing…?