Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from the Indian Creek MOPS Steering Team!


We hope you have a wonderful Christmas!


So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to himand was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. - Luke 2:4-20

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

My Favorite Things: Gifts to Recieve

Want to try a new restaurant but not sure where to go?
Are you pregnant and not sure what baby products you really need?
Are you unsure of what to cook on a busy weeknight?

What better place to turn than your fellow MOPS moms for ideas?

Our new feature My Favorite Things - will give you some ideas of where to start.
Each month we will feature a different question and recommendations will be listed by other MOPS moms in the group.

Just in time for the holidays, this month's feature:
What is your favorite gift to receive?

  • Restaurant gift cards - Melony S.
  • Gift card - Alisha D.
  • Starbucks gift card - Ashley C.
  • Anything handmade/thoughtful - Jessica F.
  • Spa gift cards - Jane H.
  • Love - Stephanie H.
  • Gift cards - Emily H.
  • Clothes - Katie H.
  • Pedicure - Heather J.
  • Thoughtful item or clothes - Stephanie L.
  • Gift card or clothes - Alicia P.
  • Hobby Lobby gift cards - Lindsay R.
  • Food - Amy S.
  • Gift cards, accessories - Raychel V.
  • Scarves, jewelry - Laura W.
  • Hugs and kisses from my kids - Kelly R.
  • Books! - Erin B.
  • Anything thoughtful - Karla T.
  • Pampering and shopping money - Julie K.
  • Gift cards - Jennifer P.
  • Movie night gift card - Angela A.
  • Gift cards - Sara B.
  • Jewelry or running related gifts - Sara K.
  • Anything KU - Carrie M.
  • Jewelry - Nicki F.
  • Gator stuff, Starbucks gift cards- Jessi C.
  • Jewelry, gadgets, homemade stuff (from my kids), gift cards - Sarah L.
  • Starbucks gift cards or girly accessories (scarves, earrings, etc.) - Nicole P.
  • Coffee mugs - Just kidding! - Lou Ann C.
  • Real hot sauce! The kind that makes you tear up with one smell. My faves are Sudden Death, Widow, and The Bomb! - Rachael K.

Want to contribute your ideas for our blog or newsletter? Check your MOPS folder for the My Favorite Things feature!

Featured Article: Memory Keepers

Memory Keepers
By Sara K.

As I looked around the family room I grew up in, staring at empty plates on tables with half eaten delights and wrapping paper littering the corners of the room I thought about the big clean up job that lay ahead for my mother and I. I had the opportunity to spend Christmas this year at my parents' house with my aunts, uncles, and cousins. As the holidays drew near, my mom got weekly calls of relatives from different states that would be making making the trip home for the holiday. Over 40 people filled the house for about five hours of fellowship. I helped my mom prep for the big crowd, maintained appetizer trays during the day, and now looked at what was going to be a couple of hours of clean up but I grinned thinking of how much fun it was to see everyone.

I know each of you had a similar experience, spending a lot of time prepping for Christmas, putting up a tree, making cookies, and other holiday treats, mailing Christmas cards, entertaining and yes a lot of cleaning. Whether it was dishes, wrapping paper, or getting ready to entertain guests, the holidays can create a lot of work and stress to moms. I watched my mom on Christmas hug everyone as they entered her home, smile at each person and thank them for coming and it struck me, she has created this tradition as her mom did before her. She opens her home to our family even though it takes a lot of work because we mom are the "Memory Keepers" for our family. We are the ones to help make the memories our children will grow up with and equate with the holidays. We do this because as moms we want to make everyone smile; we want to make fond memories for our children, relatives, and friends to remember. This is why we may stay up all night wrapping presents or putting toys together so we can see the joy in our children's eyes when they find that special gift waiting for them. While many of the preparations go unnoticed, know that you are creating these memories for your family. These fun memories which may seem like so much work at the time can make a lasting impact in your child's mind. My kids were so excited to see their cousins, and my Aunt Michelle, who had traveled with her family from Michigan, took pictures of the chaos, so she could remember the moment. 

As a mom I feel like I'm constantly being torn in a few different directions and never have enough hours in the day, but when I look back at the pictures I see how fast they are growing up. I realize how important these memories are to make, memories that make our family unique. Even the little things like making forts in the family room, I have started to photograph because they are memories. 

Before we left my parents' house to make the trip back to Kansas City, I made sure I gave my mom a big hug and thanked her for all of the wonderful memories she has created for our family. I am looking forward to what memories we will make as a family in 2014.

Originally published in the January 2014 MOPS newsletter.

Monday, December 1, 2014

What Your MOPPET is Learning: December


While we are enjoying some time with other mothers, the kids are busy in their classes as well. 

Each month we will post a sneak peak at the MOPPETS curriculum for the 2012-13 year.  

This year the kids will be studying the Fruit of the Spirit curriculum which has been a favorite in the past.

All kids in the Otters, Lions, Ostrich, and Giraffe classes will participate in a Bible lesson, craft, game, music, play time, short video related to the Bible lesson, (such as VeggieTales) and snack.

Your children will be performing a Christmas program at the first December meeting so start practicing those songs at home!  And don't forget your camera!

Here is a peek at the curriculum for the month:


December- Patience
Song of the month- "Away in a Manger" and other songs you choose to sing during the Mom's Brunch
12/4-Lesson- God is good and makes good things.
Story- Christmas Story1 Thessalonians 5:14 be patient with everyone.
Verse- 1 Chronicles 16:34 Give thanks to the lord for he is good.

For a list of the entire MOPPETS Curriculum for the year please check out the "About MOPPETS" tab.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving from the Indian Creek MOPS Steering Team!

We hope you have a great holiday and that you have lots to be thankful this year!

I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. Psalm 69:30

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Featured Article: Things They Don't Tell You About Motherhood

Things They Don't Tell You About Motherhood
By Sarah L.

Expecting your first baby is such an exciting time. You do everything possible to prepare for this new life you are responsible for. You read books about birth and parenting, you take classes, and you listen to advice from friends and relatives about parenthood. You prepare the nursery, do your research to find the best car seat, wash and put away all the tiny baby clothes, daydream about holding your sweetie, and you start feeling you are prepared and ready for motherhood.

The pregnancy goes by in a rush, the first few exhausting months of life with a newborn are a blur and somehow you recover and it dawns on you - there are things that they do not teach you in classes or books. They go way beyond the hospital, and happen when you are alone in the middle of the night or when no one is around.

Now you know they don’t tell you how hard babies can be or that they will most likely poo, pee, puke, and drool on what is left of your already limited postpartum wardrobe leaving you absolutely nothing decent to wear in public.  They don’t tell you that despite others’ efforts to help; you are the only one who can soothe your baby and get him to go to sleep because there is no place like a mother’s arms and quite possibly you are his food source.

They don’t tell you that your sweet innocent baby will turn into a defiant, angry toddler or that you will reach levels of exhaustion that you never knew existed.  Even more surprising you will continue to function as an almost normal human being for weeks, even months on end. No one will notice because they are all exhausted too.

One day you will be surprised to find that you will turn your back for a minuscule moment of time and then you will find that someone has quite proudly peed in your shoes OR unrolled an entire roll of toilet paper OR colored on your new ottoman with permanent marker OR given herself a haircut with scissors you could swear were well hidden.  You will also be surprised to find that because your toddler is so stinking cute, you won’t stay mad very long at all.

There are moments of embarrassment deeper than any other, not to mention the new levels of fatigue, pain, and loneliness that you didn’t think were possible. As you pick up the same toys, cook the same meals, clean the same toilets, and fold the same clothes over and over and over again you will realize your life has become quite dull and mundane.

BUT there are other moments they don’t tell you about too, like the joy of seeing your squirming, pink baby for the first time. The awe you feel of the miracle that you and your husband have created this tiny person that you are now totally responsible for. And at that moment you feel love deeper than any other you have ever felt. You find yourself staring at your child as she sleeps, whether they are 3 days old or 3 years old, thinking how angelic and beautiful they look and you make yourself resist grabbing her and squeezing her, so that you don’t disturb her sweet peacefulness.  

They don’t tell you how your heart feels like it will jump out of your chest when you see your toddler teetering at the top of a staircase or the pain you feel when you see him get hurt.  They never tell you about that day when your child comes home from school with his feelings hurt and you feel a new and scary urge to track that person down and explain to them, not so calmly, how wonderful your baby is and make them apologize and understand.  You will want to fix it and you will feel utterly out of control and helpless.

There is the first time you watch them do something they love and you won’t be able to stop the smile from spreading across your face. The moment when you realize they have grown up right before you and tears threaten to escape from your damp eyes before you can stop them. Suddenly you have a revelation - My Baby is a Kid!!

You will celebrate each new tooth and then celebrate a few years later as they fall out one by one, not even remembering how much pain, crying, crabbiness, and sleepless nights they caused as they broke through. The days drag and the years fly by almost without you even noticing. You wish them to pass and then wish them back again the next minute.  They just don’t tell you how awesome motherhood is in a strange combination of wonderful and exhausting and painful and rewarding and emotional and surprising. Or how fast it all goes.

So whether you are a mom of 1 child or 5 children, of a newborn or a 15 year old; you are in the know. You know the things they don’t tell you, the things they can’t tell you because they are just too hard to explain. Some things you just have to figure out on your own and do your own way.  It is something you have to experience to understand.

So, of all the things I have experienced as a mom these last 8 ½ years, in the blur of all the wonderful, horrible, and hilarious things, what would I tell a new mother so she would know? So she wouldn’t wait too long figure it out?

Enjoy these moments right now, whatever stage you are in, enjoy!  Don’t look back at times past. Don’t waste time wishing for chubby fingers and snugly babies. Don’t look forward to this stage passing because there is always a new and different stage that is just as challenging.

Live right now!  Enjoy it! Savor the small things like the giggles, the silliness, the messes, and then laugh about the things that don’t seem funny.  Cherish them, because even if you have only been a mother for a month, you already know how fast that month went by and how many things can change in such a short time. A month will turn into a year which turns into a decade in the blink of an eye.  Our children will grow and lose their chubby hands, their legs will get long and skinny and bruised, their attitudes will get big, they will push for independence, and they will become real grown up people with their own personalities and their own identities. They will make their own decisions both good and bad. Decisions we have no control over. Embrace it. Don’t hold them back by looking back at times past or wishing for the future and the hope of “easier” days. Accept and enjoy where they are right now.

Hug your preschooler and all your other kids too. Hug them tight and enjoy this moment. You won’t be sorry, because tomorrow this moment will be gone forever. These are the things they don’t tell you about motherhood. It’s not easy but it is worth it.

Originally published in the May 2014 Indian Creek MOPS Newsletter



Wednesday, November 5, 2014

My Favorite Things: Restaurants

Want to try a new restaurant but not sure where to go?
Are you pregnant and not sure what baby products you really need?
Are you unsure of what to cook on a busy weeknight?

What better place to turn than your fellow MOPS moms for ideas?

Our new feature My Favorite Things - will give you some ideas of where to start.
Each month we will feature a different question and recommendations will be listed by other MOPS moms in the group.

This month's feature:
What is your favorite restaurant?

  • Planet Sub - Melony S.
  • RA Sushi- Alisha D.
  • Olive Garden - Ashley C.
  • Oklahoma Joe's - Jessica F.
  • With kids Chick-Fil-A, Casual - Unforked, Fancy - J. Gilbert's - Jane H.
  • Burger King salad wraps - Stephanie H.
  • Bravo - Katie H.
  •  Mi Ranchito's - Heather J.
  • Red Lobster - Stephanie L
  • Jose Peppers- Alicia P.
  • Longhorn Steakhouse - Lindsay R
  • Mai Thai - Amy S.
  • Stix at the Legengs - Raychel V.
  • Chapala - Laura W.
  • Mongolian BBQ - Kelly R.
  • Kona Grill and Yard House - Erin B.
  • Ernesto's - Karla T.
  • Chapala - Julie K.
  • Jose Peppers - Jennifer P.
  • Chapala - Sara B
  • Bone Fish - Carrie M.
  • Justice Drugstore or American Restaurant - Nicki F.
  • Mexican - Hacienda - Sara K.
  • Chapala - Jessi C.
  • Minsky's, anything Mexican or Italian - Sarah L.
  • Bahama Breeze, Tijuana Flats - Nicole P.
  • Oklahoma Joe's or Spin Pizza - Lou Ann C.
  • Elephant Bar - Rachael K.

Want to contribute your ideas for our blog or newsletter? Check your MOPS folder for the My Favorite Things feature!

Saturday, November 1, 2014

What Your MOPPET is Learning: November


While we are enjoying some time with other mothers, the kids are busy in their classes as well. 

Each month we will post a sneak peak at the MOPPETS curriculum for the 2012-13 year.  

This year the kids will be studying the Fruit of the Spirit curriculum which has been a favorite in the past.

All kids in the Otters, Lions, Ostrich, and Giraffe classes will participate in a Bible lesson, craft, game, music, play time, short video related to the Bible lesson, (such as VeggieTales) and snack.

Your children will be performing a Christmas program at the first December meeting so start practicing those songs at home!  And don't forget your camera!

Here is a peek at the curriculum for the month:


November- Goodness
Song of the month- "God made me".  Practice "Away in a Manger" (for the Christmas Program)*
11/6-Lesson- God is good and makes good things.
Story- Creation
Verse- 1 Chronicles 16:34 Give thanks to the lord for he is good.
11/20-Lesson- Thank God for our blessings.
Story- The Leper who said thank you to Jesus.
Verse- 1 Chronicles 16:34 Give thanks to the lord for he is good.


For a list of the entire MOPPETS Curriculum for the year please check out the "About MOPPETS" tab.





Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Featured Article: "Savior Please"

"Savior Please"
By Jenni B.

During this Fall break I've enjoyed spending time with my family, attempting to savor every moment and lock it away in my internal picture file. But unfortunately since it's been extremely cold and snowy which means limited energy burning sessions outside, the kids are getting a bad case of cabin fever.

I finally had reached my last straw and my cup was on empty. As I was standing there I heard a song on the radio. And at that moment, I lost it. Standing in my kitchen bawling my eyes out. Those lyrics that touched me so I'd like to share with you. The song is by Josh Wilson called "Savior Please". 

"Savior, please take my hand. 
I work so hard, I live so fast. 
This life begins, then it ends. 
And then I do the best that I can,
but I don't know how long I'll last.
I try to be so tough,
but I'm just not strong enough.
I can't do this alone,
god I need you to hold on to me.
I try to be good enough,
but I'm nothing without your love.
Savior, please keep saving me.
Savior, please help me stand
I fall so hard, I fade so fast.
Will you begin right where I end?
And be the God of all I am because you're all I have.
Hallelujah! Everything you are to me is everything I'll ever need.
And I am learning to believe
'casue you're the one who's saving me"

Isn't this the ultimate "mom song"? As a mom, I try to be everything to everyone and do everything I can for the. Sometimes I push myself so hard so fast that I am left with nothing. This song reminds me that no matter how depleted , stressed out or unappreciated I may feel, our Savior never shifts.

Originally published in the October 2012 Indian Creek MOPS newsletter.


Wednesday, October 8, 2014

My Favorite Things: Books

Want to try a new restaurant but not sure where to go?
Are you pregnant and not sure what baby products you really need?
Are you unsure of what to cook on a busy weeknight?

What better place to turn than your fellow MOPS moms for ideas?

Our new feature My Favorite Things - will give you some ideas of where to start.
Each month we will feature a different question and recommendations will be listed by other MOPS moms in the group.

At the start of a new MOPS year, this month's feature is:
What is your favorite book?



  • Teacher by Sylvia Ashton Warner - Melony S.
  • Gone Girl by Gillian Elynn - Alisha D.
  • Anything by Nicholas Sparks - Ashley C.
  • Anything by Jodi Picoult - Jessica F.
  • Anne of Green Gables, Narnia Series - Jane H.
  • Beautiful Creatures - Stephanie H.
  • Linwood Barclay books - Katie H.
  • The Praying Life - Heather J.
  • Eat Love Pray - Stephanie L.
  • Hunger Games - Alicia P.
  • Jesus Calling devotional - Lindsay R.
  • Davinci Code - Amy S.
  • Twilight, Hunger Games - Raychel V.
  • The Fountainhead - Laura W.
  • The Bible - Kelly R
  • Too many! But just read Gone Girl - awesome! - Erin B.
  • How to Beahve so your Preschoolers Will Too - Karla T.
  • The Rid Tent - Angela Allen
  • Love and War - Sara B.
  • The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks - Sara K.
  • The Bible - Carrie M.
  • I could never choose! - Jessi C.
  • The Time Traveler's Wife, Atonement Child, Hunger Games series, and so many more - very hard to pick a few! - Sarah L.
  • My Sister's Keeper - Nicole P.
  • Harry Potter series- Lou Ann C.
  • Mortal Instrument series by Cassandra Clare, Divergent series by Veronica Roth- Rachael K.

Want to contribute your ideas for our blog or newsletter? Check your MOPS folder for the My Favorite Things feature!

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

What Your MOPPET is Learning: October


While we are enjoying some time with other mothers, the kids are busy in their classes as well. 

Each month we will post a sneak peak at the MOPPETS curriculum for the 2012-13 year.  

This year the kids will be studying the Fruit of the Spirit curriculum which has been a favorite in the past.

All kids in the Otters, Lions, Ostrich, and Giraffe classes will participate in a Bible lesson, craft, game, music, play time, short video related to the Bible lesson, (such as VeggieTales) and snack.

Here is a peek at the curriculum for the month:


October- Self Control
Song of the month- Oh be Careful Little Eyes. 2nd October meeting   Practice "Away in a Manger" (for the Christmas Program)*
10/2-Lesson- We need to use self-control when we are angry.
Story- The life of Joseph
Verse- 2 Timothy 1:7 His spirit fills us with power, love, and self-control
10/16-Lesson-God wants us to use self-control.
Story- Adam and Eve
Verse- Colossians 3:20 Children obey your parents and the lord for this is right.

For a list of the entire MOPPETS Curriculum for the year please check out the "About MOPPETS" tab.

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Featured Article: Loss in a Mother's World (or Losing It!)

Loss in a Mother's World (or Losing It!)
by Stephanie L.

When you think of motherhood, the idea of loss most likely doesn't pop into your head first and foremost but it is a feeling that can be very present in this motherhood journey. For instance, there can be the heartbreaking loss of a baby through miscarriage, abortion, or a stillborn birth or the tragic loss of a child. There are other less tangible losses that can occur too however. Such as the loss of friendships, the .loss of intimacy with our husband, or the loss of a career (whether chosen or not). These can also be complicated loss of self or identity. This is what currently intrigues me.

Think back to the pregnancy of your first child. There was so much anticipation! It was fun to have everyone so excited for you and about your first baby. A first baby causes a lot of attention directed at you. Some may not enjoy that moment but you may have enjoyed being the center of attention even (gasp!) the baby bump touches! Then the baby comes and it's all about baby while you're trying to tread water to make sure everything goes smoothly as possibly In those first few days, weeks, months, years.....

With the amazing birth of your first child comes the identity shift becoming "someones mommy." When you drop off your precious tot at a nursery or child care of some sort chances are the workers will love and dote on your child and have no idea what your name is other than "So-and-So's mommy." Not only have you probably lost your last name when you wed but now you've lost your fist name too! that can be challenging.

Down the line however, there comes a time when you experience the lost of babyhood in your home and arms. The baby has grown up! When did that happen!? You didn't actually think you'd miss changing diapers or holding a baby 24/7, but now you do. You anxiously await all the first milestones but then they're over in the blink of an eye. along those lines, there can also be the loss of becoming pregnant. Maybe you had planned on having more children but it doesn't seem to be in the cards for you. Maybe that darn biological clock is ticking too loudly. Perhaps you and your husband are at odds at the idea of having more children. (Raising hand!).

along with pregnancy comes the loss of your body as you knew it. Babies cause bellies to get big and the rest of your body too! While some lucky women have the God given ability to "bounce back" after having a baby, others have to figure out how to manage, dress, and care for this new body while and after pregnant. Personally, I am just now in a happy place with my body and my youngest is two years old. It takes a long time and a lot of hard work and dedication. Thank goodness for yoga pants and this lovely legging fashion trend, right?

And who is responsible for this lovely change in appearance? Oh, your husband, remember him? Regardless of his responsibility in all that, remember when you could just go out whenever and do whatever you pleased together? Pre-diaper bags, pre-schedules, pre-needing a baby-sitter? Thought there are seasons of motherhood where it is harder to get away with your husband, please make an effort. For the sake of your marriage and for your precious baby's parent's relationship. It takes planning and trusting but it's worth it. Pencil it in. Budget it in. Perhaps not each week (how nice would that be?) but enough that you remember long it's been between dates.

As monotoned above, the loss of a career or the change in becoming a working mom now can be difficult to digest as well. If you have chosen to stay home, finding the right balance in personal fulfillment can be a challenge. By the same token, heading back to work after having a baby can be a struggle in finding the right work/home balance. It doesn't matter what your personal choice is as there are unfortunately unfair stereotypes for each. When someone asks what you do, it can be uncomfortable in either situation.

There is also the loss of your own independence, especially when having little children.  Babies, toddlers, and even older want (and pretty much need) you to be with them at all times.  Lightheartedly, this is also the loss of going to the bathroom alone. I generally have both kids and my dog with me and then even when my husband comes home, he likes to join in the fun to say "Hi!" at that particular moment. "Go away for two seconds please!!" This reminds me that there can also be the loss of sanity in a great number of ways a great number of times throughout the day.

In all seriousness, the loss of friendships can be hard to endure when you want them to continue but lifestyle realities won't allow it. "No, I can't meet you for coffee at 2 pm because the baby naps then. Nope, I can't meet for drinks after dinner because the baby needs to nurse and go to bed at 7:30." Friends without kids don't understand this. And you can't really blame them, it's kind of ridiculous but its' your life now! And sometimes you really do try to weigh the risks associated with one fun night out vs. not sleeping through the night for the new few nights because of it.

Thankfully, there is MOPS and other groups of moms that genuinely need each other and want to connect. If you are experiencing any sort of loss, I pray that you feel comfortable enough to confide in someone. Whether it be at your table, at another table or with a leader; we're all here for each otehr and most likely someone has gone through what you're going through. Always remember that you find your primary identity in Christ and that you are never truly alone.

Originally published in the February 2014 Indian Creek MOPS Newsletter.

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

My Favorite Things: Money Saving Tips

Want to try a new restaurant but not sure where to go?
Are you pregnant and not sure what baby products you really need?
Are you unsure of what to cook on a busy weeknight?

What better place to turn than your fellow MOPS moms for ideas?

Our new feature My Favorite Things - will give you some ideas of where to start.
Each month we will feature a different question and recommendations will be listed by other MOPS moms in the group.

This month's feature:
What is your money saving tip?

  • Thrift stores and home cooking - Melony S.
  • Buy store brand products - Ashley C.
  • Muelopes budgeting software - Jessica F.
  • Cut up your credit cards - Jane H.
  • Put it away before it can be spent, auto deposit to savings - Stephanie H.
  • price match at Walmart - Emily H.
  • Coupons - Heather J.
  • Budget for savings - Stephanie L.
  • Write down everything and make a list of what you need - Alicia P.
  • We try to put back our tax returns - Lindsay R.
  • Walmart price match is cool - Amy S.
  • Target red card (debit not credit) save 5% - Raychel V.
  • Don't grocery shop hungry - Laura W.
  • Buy used clothes at Goodwill or Savers - Erin B.
  • Price Matching - Karla T.
  • Learn to cut hair! - Julie K.
  • Make a budget and follow through - Jennifer P.
  • Plan weekly meals - Angela A.
  • Not going to Target daily - Sara B.
  • Buy big items on Craigslist - Carrie M.
  • Set a budget and stick to it. - Sara K.
  • Don't spend it :) - Nicki F.
  • Stick to your budget, meal plan around sales. - Jessi C.
  • Make your own laundry soap and cleaning supplies, budget, meal plan, eat out less, Aldi- Sarah L.
  • Meal plan and only grocery shop bi-weekly. - Nicole P.
  • Don't buy things you don't really need. - Lou Ann C.
  • Be married to my husband, itemize your budget, break everything into percentages and review frequently - Rachael K.

Want to contribute your ideas for our blog or newsletter? Check your MOPS folder for the My Favorite Things feature!

Monday, September 1, 2014

What Your MOPPET is Learning: September

While we are enjoying some time with other mothers, the kids are busy in their classes as well. 

Each month we will post a sneak peak at the MOPPETS curriculum for the 2012-13 year.  

This year the kids will be studying the Fruit of the Spirit curriculum which has been a favorite in the past.

All kids in the Otters, Lions, Ostrich, and Giraffe classes will participate in a Bible lesson, craft, game, music, play time, short video related to the Bible lesson, (such as VeggieTales) and snack.

Here is a peek at the curriculum for the month:


September-Kindness

Song of the month- If You’re Happy and You Know it.
9/4-Lesson- God wants us to be kind to others.
Story- Good Samaritan
Verse- Galatians 5:14, Love your neighbor as yourself
9/18-Lesson-God wants us to be kind to others.
Story- Jesus shows kindness
Verse- 1 Peter 3.9 Treat everyone with kindness


For a list of the entire MOPPETS Curriculum for the year please check out the "About MOPPETS" tab.

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Freezer Meal Recipes: July 2014

Sloppy Joe's (Beef or Turkey)

1 1/2-2 COOKED ground beef or turkey
1 Green Pepper finely chopped
1Onion minced
1 lb bacon finely chopped
Salt to taste
BBQ sauce to your liking for right thickness/consistency
Buns for serving

Place contents in bag and mix to coat the meat evenly. You can put this in crock pot frozen or defrosted, it will cook on low for 4-6 hrs. Closer to 4 hrs if defrosted, closer to 6 if frozen.Serve on buns with side of veggies

French Dip Sandwhiches

4 lb of pot roast
32 oz beef broth
5 garlic cloves
1 oinon quartered
1 Tble Italian seasoning (dry dressing mix)
1 Tble ground mustard
1 Tble pepper
Salt to taste
Hoagie Rolls for serving

Place all food in bag and shake to incorporate. Place defrosted food in crock pot and cook on low for 7 hrs. Shred the meat and strain the broth to remove the large pieces of
food. You will be left with your au jus dipping sauce.

Mexican Chicken Lettuce Wraps

15 oz (or 2 cups homemade) tomato sauce
4 oz diced chilies
1 Tble cumin
1 Tble onion powder
2 bls chicken
Salt/Pepper to taste
1 Tble corn starch (for after
cooking)
1 Head Butter lettuce for serving
Favorite salsa for topping

Place all ingredients in bag except the corn starch. Defrost in the fridge overnight, place in crock pot and cook on low for 6 hrs, or high for 3 hrs. Remove the chicken and shred, add corn starch to sauce to thicken, return chicken to the pot. Top with salsa of choice.Place in Lettuce leaves and wrap (you can also use tortillas, I was just trying to change things up!)

Rosemary Chicken

1 whole chicken (or 4 breasts if a whole chicken freaks you out!!!)
I Tble garlic powder
1 Tble rosemary
1 Lemon, sliced
Salt/Pepper to taste

Whole Chicken: Place spices under skin and sliced lemons inside cavity

Defrost when ready to cook, and cook on low for 8 hrs

Breasts: Coat chicken with spices, place lemon slices on top. When ready to cook, place in crock pot with 1⁄2 cup of chicken broth and cook on low 4-6 hrsServe as sandwich meat, or with vegetables and pasta.

Turkey Meatball

 1 1⁄2 lbs of ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken)
1 Tble garlic (1 clove)
1 T onion powder
1 Tbl Italian seasoning (dry dressing mix
2 cups (15-16 oz ) tomato sauce
1⁄4 cup Parmesan cheese
Salt/pepper to taste
1 cup diced mushrooms optional

Mix all ingredients, except sauce and cheese, in a bowl, just until incorporated. Too much mixing
with make the meatballs tough. The mushrooms are optional b/c the mix makes a dense meatball, the mushrooms will lighten it up. It is all your preference.Roll into balls and place in a single layer in freezer bag.

Defrost when ready to use and place in crock pot . Top with tomato sauce and cheese. Cook on low for 4-6 hrs. Serve over pasta

Santa Fe Chicken 

1-2 lbs chicken
Green chilies
2 cups (1 can) black beans
1 cup corn
2 garlic cloves
1⁄2 jalapeno pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion poweder
1 Tble cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cayenne
1⁄2 lime juiced
1 cup salsa

*Time saver: the amount of garlic, onion, and chili powder, cumin, and cayenne are equal to about a packet of taco seasoning if you would prefer to use that.  Place all ingredients in bag and mix to coat the chicken

Cook (frozen or defrosted) on low for 4-6 hrs Serve over rice

Chicken Pad Thai

 1⁄2 cup HOT water
1⁄4 cup sugar
2 Tble rice wine vinegar
2 Tble soy sauce
1 Tble chili sauce
1⁄2 lime juiced
1 lb chicken
2 cups broccoli (fresh or frozen)
1 cup shredded cabbage (you can use coleslaw mix)
1⁄2 cup cilantro
1 small onion chopped
3 garlic cloves
8 oz linguine (for serving)

Mix first 6 ingredients to create a sauce, add in remaining ingredients into freezer bag and mix to incorporate. Place in crock pot frozen or defrosted and cook on low 6-8 hrs. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and shred the chicken. Mix the cooked pasta into the pot and toss to coat with sauce.


Mexican Rice

 2 cups brown rice
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups diced tomoatoes
1 onion
1 bell pepper
2 tsp chili powder
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
2 Tble cilantro

Mix all ingredients in freezer bag.

Defrost when ready to cook, place in crock pot and cook on high for 2 1⁄2 -3 hrs or until the liquid is absorbed. Serve as a side with tacos, grilled chicken.

Refried Beans

 2 lbs pinto beans
1 onion
4 garlic cloves

Place all ingredients in freezer bag and freeze.

2 Tble salt
1 tsp pepper
2 Tble Cumin

When ready to cook, defrost and place in crock pot. Add 10 cups of HOT water and cook on high for 4 hrs and low for 2 hours. Blend to desired consistency This make a lot of beans! Place approx. 2 cups in smaller freezer bags and freeze until needed. Serve as side or use to make filling for enchiladas or tacos at a later date.

Chocolate Bread Pudding

1 lb bread cubed (Italian works best)
1 cup cream
12 oz dark chocolate chips
2 cups milk
3 eggs
6 Tble sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Melt chocolate chips in cream using the microwave until smooth. Add in other ingredients and toss over bread to coat. Place in freezer bag and freeze.

When ready to cook, defrost and place in crock pot. Cook on low for 3 hours.

*Tip: Place a paper towel under the lid when cooking to absorb the condensation and prevent it from dripping into your pudding!

Orange Chicken

1 lb chicken
1⁄2 bottle of BBQ sauce
1⁄2 cup of orange jelly/jam
1⁄2 cup chicken broth

Mix all ingredients in freezer bag and freeze.

Place in crock pot frozen or defrosted and cook on low for 6-8 hrs. Serve over rice

Buffalo Chicken

1 lb chicken
1⁄2 packet of ranch dressing mix
1⁄2 cup chicken broth
2 Tble butter
1 bottle of Franks Red Hot Buffalo Sauce for serving

Place chicken , ranch, broth, and butter in freezer bag and freeze.

Place in crock pot frozen or defrosted and cook on low for 6-8 hrs. When finished cooking, drain excess liquid off, shred chicken, and add in buffalo sauce to desired hotness level!

Serve on sandwiches or tacos