"With every job that must be done there is an element of fun."
Well, Mary Poppins, you try telling that to my kiddos, who, try as they might, have not been able to get their beds to make themselves at the snap of a finger. I too have tried that particular trick on the dishes and laundry and can safely say that no matter how big my smile, the result of snapping fingers is a big, fat nothing.
Yet, I do believe that getting stuff done around the house can be fun. For myself, I've implemented a few techniques that have had relatively positive results for me. This includes playing boogie-worthy music in the kitchen (downside being that the boogying becomes a distraction), timing myself (downside being my frustration when I realize spaghetti sauce has emblazoned itself on the microwave, and I won't be beating that timer any time soon), and talking to my mom/sister/friends on the phone (downside being that my Bluetooth has disappeared into the bowels of my mini van, and the cell phone doesn't fare so well after being dropped in the toilet).
But I have kids! Yes! Free labor (do not tell DHS I said so). Of course, two kids under the age of four do not good helpers make. I mean, yes, they like to help, but I'm going to be honest and tell you they're not so good at it. The only thing my preschooler wants to Windex is my toddler, so I've decided to keep their chores strictly to picking up. But that didn't keep me from hunting down ways to get kids interested--and even excited--about lending a helping hand.
1. Chart it. Visit Goal For It, where you can design a cute, free chore chart. Not sure how to get the kids going on it? Erin Griffith, Edmond mom of four kiddos, gave me the following helpful advice:
"Our oldest three kids have "Responsibility & Commitment" charts. THEY choose three age appropriate, task oriented chores (i.e., read book, make bed, empty dishwasher, feed dogs, brush teeth, practice instrument, etc.) and WE choose two character oriented (shared toys, serve others, positive attitude, be helpful, etc.). At the end of the day, we place magnets according to performance. These charts never have to be perfect, but rather, we are trying to instill a strong work ethic and sense of family responsibility. They also serve as a good tool in earning their weekly activities."
2. Ready, set, go! My timer idea is not original, as I found out while searching online and conversing with Griffith, the super mom of four. Kids love to compete, especially when prizes are involved. You don't have to pit them against each other; just give your kids a goal with a prize in mind. And prizes don't have to be big deals either. Ice cream, popsicles, or "we get to go outside and play family basketball when this is done" is all that's required.
3. Do it together, and don't forget to take a break. Nothing says family like accomplishing things together while having a fun time. So turn up the music or talk while you do dishes, fold laundry, or clean windows. And don't overdo it! From my own experience growing up, keeping up with chores throughout the week felt so much better (and doable) than a four-hour cleaning extravaganza on Saturday morning. Remind those kids if you can get the work done during the week, they will have more free time available for the weekend. This is a lesson that will stick with them for years to come.
Want more ideas? Check out a great ehow.com article here.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Getting kids ready part two - First day jitter fixers
Last week I had some talented teachers give you the lowdown on preparing your kids to ease back into the school year. And you're grateful, I know. ;-) But whether your kiddo is bouncing off the walls with excitement to go back or facing you down with a pouty lip, saying, "I'm not feeling well," you know the first day of school can be high on the anxiety charts for even the most fluttery social butterfly.
Well, after cornering my usual posse of moms, as well as digging around in my friends' childhoods (at least, I think they're still my friends after frequent interrogations!), I've got a few suggestions for making the very first day of school a winner.
1. Talk to me. That's right, talking makes the world go 'round (not money, in case you were confused). Nothing's better than reminding your kids how much fun they had last year, how much fun they'll have this year, and bringing up any special times that will have them thinking: "This school thing--it's not so bad."
2. How do you do? Most schools have an open house or similar event to give your children the chance to be introduced to their teacher and classroom before the first day. A familiar face goes a long way to reducing social anxiety, so don't skip this.
3. The more the merrier. Why can't the first day be a special event? Maybe coordinate with a best friend's parent so your child can arrive at school with a buddy. Two's company!
4. Make a note. Be that crazy mom or dad who puts a note in the backpack or lunchbox. Get creative and go beyond the sweet "Love ya," and write about your favorite summer memory or why you think your kid is so awesome. Boosting confidence or reminding your children how much they mean to you makes the world a more manageable place for them.
5. Talk to me - again. And when they get home...listen. Ask questions that demand more than a "yes" or "no" answer, and look for the emotions under the words. With a little patience, even the most reluctant child may eventually spill the beans about anything that bothered him or her. I mean, I still call my momma after a challenging day. At any age, a hug and words of encouragement are priceless.
Well, after cornering my usual posse of moms, as well as digging around in my friends' childhoods (at least, I think they're still my friends after frequent interrogations!), I've got a few suggestions for making the very first day of school a winner.
1. Talk to me. That's right, talking makes the world go 'round (not money, in case you were confused). Nothing's better than reminding your kids how much fun they had last year, how much fun they'll have this year, and bringing up any special times that will have them thinking: "This school thing--it's not so bad."
2. How do you do? Most schools have an open house or similar event to give your children the chance to be introduced to their teacher and classroom before the first day. A familiar face goes a long way to reducing social anxiety, so don't skip this.
3. The more the merrier. Why can't the first day be a special event? Maybe coordinate with a best friend's parent so your child can arrive at school with a buddy. Two's company!
4. Make a note. Be that crazy mom or dad who puts a note in the backpack or lunchbox. Get creative and go beyond the sweet "Love ya," and write about your favorite summer memory or why you think your kid is so awesome. Boosting confidence or reminding your children how much they mean to you makes the world a more manageable place for them.
5. Talk to me - again. And when they get home...listen. Ask questions that demand more than a "yes" or "no" answer, and look for the emotions under the words. With a little patience, even the most reluctant child may eventually spill the beans about anything that bothered him or her. I mean, I still call my momma after a challenging day. At any age, a hug and words of encouragement are priceless.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Getting kids ready to go back to school – From the mouths of your friendly neighborhood teachers
Over the summer, many of us parents have been absorbed in
chauffeuring the kids to summer camps, swimming lessons, and the snow cone
stand down the street with the awesome macaroon flavor. Who has time to think
ahead?
Annette: I sign my four kids up with the Edmond Library to take part in their summer reading program. It provides little incentives along the way to read, and the children have a chance at winning some pretty big prizes at the end of the summer if their names are drawn.
How can parents get kids excited about going back to school?
Annette: I can't wait to meet my students! Each child in my class is like a puzzle to me, and I love trying to figure them out!
But already, signs in Target and Walmart scream “BACK TO
SCHOOL SUPPLIES,” and suddenly, we look at our kids, standing in chewed-up flip
flops and chocolate ice cream-stained T-shirts, and realize we’d better start
thinking about bus schedules and number 2 pencils.
Thankfully, we have some great teachers in the area to give
you a head start on firing those kids up for another year. I've included their full interviews (just click on the name) to a series of questions that should give you some answers for making the first day awesome. My expert panel
included the following:
Jamie Minter, fifth grade teacher at John Ross Elementary
Walaya Lupp, a high school reading specialist in the Oklahoma City area
Annetta Cain, second grade teacher at Spring Creek Elementary
Kathleen Schwiebert, sixth grade reading teacher at Deer Creek Intermediate School
Here are the highlights!
How can parents help their kids prepare for going back to school?
Jamie Minter, fifth grade teacher at John Ross Elementary
Walaya Lupp, a high school reading specialist in the Oklahoma City area
Annetta Cain, second grade teacher at Spring Creek Elementary
Kathleen Schwiebert, sixth grade reading teacher at Deer Creek Intermediate School
Here are the highlights!
How can parents help their kids prepare for going back to school?
Jamie: I don't think you can just
pick a day and say, "Hey it's time to get back in the swing of things.”
But instead, just keep a flow of creative learning activities throughout the
summer months. My number one piece of advice is to READ. Parents and children both need to pick out a
good book for the summer!
Walaya: Children who
have a lot of different experiences, such as museums, parks, library visits, or
even just a trip through the woods, build what's called schema. This better
enables them to connect with what they are learning in school.Annette: I sign my four kids up with the Edmond Library to take part in their summer reading program. It provides little incentives along the way to read, and the children have a chance at winning some pretty big prizes at the end of the summer if their names are drawn.
How can parents get kids excited about going back to school?
Walaya: Ask them
what they liked about what the older kids were doing the year before, and take
your child to any activities the school is having beforehand.
Annette: Communicating in a positive way with your children is critical. Talk about the new and exciting things this school year will bring. Contact some friends from school and try to get together before school starts.
Kathleen: If parents are moaning about the
"end of summer,” kids will jump right in and express that same
feeling. I am a big believer about talking about hopes and dreams and
talking about how to achieve those things.Annette: Communicating in a positive way with your children is critical. Talk about the new and exciting things this school year will bring. Contact some friends from school and try to get together before school starts.
And finally, what do
you look forward to most in a new school year?
Jamie: What I look forward to the
most is meeting my new students. I am blessed each year to be given twenty-plus
students, and it's almost like opening a present. You never know what's inside,
and you can't wait to find out.
Walaya: I always
look forward to meeting new students and building new relationships with my
kids. I'm a reading specialist, so my love is about growing new readers
and showing kids how to pick out books that they like.Annette: I can't wait to meet my students! Each child in my class is like a puzzle to me, and I love trying to figure them out!
Kathleen: At the end of every school year, when my students leave my
classroom, I am quite sure I will never love another group of kids as I have
loved them. Then, when August rolls around, I meet a whole new group of
kids, and in a few days, I am learning names and personalities and I start to
think - I like these kids, and a whole new journey begins!
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Summer treats without the heat
My fifteen-month-old is OBSESSED with our oven. I'm not sure if it's the whir of the fan, the light, or the smell of awesome goodness (when my husband cooks), but the little guy is like a moth to a flame on that one. In fact, if anyone knows an oven child-safety device that actually works, please let me know.
Anyway, because my kids and I do have a sweet tooth (or several), I found myself searching for no-cook desserts on Pinterest, treats that say "summer" without the heat of the oven or stove involved. Oh, and which are colorful or chocolately enough to get the little guy saying "Moe!"
Contestant Number One: For something that's colorful, somewhat healthy, and quick, try these no bake tarts from The Style Sisters. I think these work great for kiddos, but it racks up extra points for being pretty enough to serve to guests too.
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| Link to site |
Contestant Number Two: This gem is from Southern Living. It gets bonus points for being easy AND made with ice cream--a match made in my own little version of heaven. And, a busy mom does not have to make her own ice cream for this to work (FYI -- Just bought some Talenti gelato at Wal-Mart that had me licking the bowl). Okay, so this treat doesn't have any health points attached. But then, it is a dessert;-)
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| Link to site |
Contestant Number Three: This last one may take a little more time, but this beauty from Let's Dish was seriously love at first sight for me. Peanut butter cups? Oreos? Chocolate Pudding? WHIPPED TOPPING? I'm desperately lovestruck. It's not as easy to make as the other two, or particularly healthy, but I may just win mother-of-the-year from my little ones if I put this together right. |
| Link to site |
And if all else fails, there are always the fool-proof popsicles. Old-school and yummy! Or if cookies and cupcakes are the only way to fill a kiddo's (or your) craving, never fear. Places like Uptown Grocery, Eileen's Colossal Cookies, or Cupcakes to Go Go are just a few of the many Edmond bakeries that have you covered. Bon Apetit!
Thursday, July 18, 2013
How hot is too hot?
Well, what a weird summer here in Edmond so far, huh? After a rather violent and tragic storm season in May, we've launched into a summer that can only be termed "mild" after the past few summers, when record-breaking 100 degree-plus temperatures became the norm.
In fact, just this week we've been treated to highs of (gasp!) 76 degrees and rain that would have made even Noah batten down the hatches. I love the temperature (refreshing), my electric bill (record-breaking lows on that account), and the rain (even though the baby stands at the window and laments "buuuuubbbbbles!!!"). But I know we'll have our penance to pay soon enough for such a mild break.
As the temperatures rise and I again get out the sunscreen, ball caps, and turtle sprinkler, I find myself wondering, "How hot is too hot?" I've got small children, and even though we do have a fail-safe method for staying indoors during the hottest part of the day (a.k.a., naptime), when it climbs to over 100--probably by next week--I'd better keep safety at the forefront of my mind.
So, here's a few methods for keeping the kiddos safe during the "dog days" of the summer.
Heat AND humidity should be considered. We all have great little phone apps now that keep us up-to-date on temperature and humidity. According to daycare.com, 100-degree temperatures combined with humidity below 50 percent are not as concerning when those temperatures are combined with higher humidity. As always, watching children closely and following your instincts is never a bad thing. Better inside than sorry!
Have the right gear. Then again, just because it's climbing toward 90 or even 100, going outside isn't completely out of the question. JohnsonBaby.com had some good tips for beating the heat that seem like common sense, but are good to remember: dress in lightweight, light-colored clothing, stick to shaded areas (where the temperature may be considerably less), bring a spray bottle of water for a quick cool down, and for goodness sake, use sunscreen!
Do NOT leave your child in the car. I'm so paranoid, I don't even close the automatic doors on the minivan until I'm buckled in. That way, if I keel over for some strange reason, surely someone in the parking lot will notice the open car doors and assist my kids. Crazy? Yes. But I'm a mom. Crazy is just part of the job description. And that leads me to...
I repeat, better inside than sorry. According to the National Weather Service, heat is one of the major causes of weather-related deaths. Your child may experience heat differently from you. According to an article on ivillage.com, babies and children sweat less, heat-up faster, and have faster metabolisms than adults, all which contribute to heating up quicker. Watch for flushed faces and keep everyone hydrated, and if you're feeling hot, it's possible your kid is hotter. Just remember, if it really is too warm to be outside and you're feeling housebound, Quail Springs Mall, Bouncin' Craze, Unpluggits, Artic Edge Ice Arena, and many other Edmond and north OKC locations have great indoor fun--no sunglasses required.
In fact, just this week we've been treated to highs of (gasp!) 76 degrees and rain that would have made even Noah batten down the hatches. I love the temperature (refreshing), my electric bill (record-breaking lows on that account), and the rain (even though the baby stands at the window and laments "buuuuubbbbbles!!!"). But I know we'll have our penance to pay soon enough for such a mild break.
As the temperatures rise and I again get out the sunscreen, ball caps, and turtle sprinkler, I find myself wondering, "How hot is too hot?" I've got small children, and even though we do have a fail-safe method for staying indoors during the hottest part of the day (a.k.a., naptime), when it climbs to over 100--probably by next week--I'd better keep safety at the forefront of my mind.
So, here's a few methods for keeping the kiddos safe during the "dog days" of the summer.
Heat AND humidity should be considered. We all have great little phone apps now that keep us up-to-date on temperature and humidity. According to daycare.com, 100-degree temperatures combined with humidity below 50 percent are not as concerning when those temperatures are combined with higher humidity. As always, watching children closely and following your instincts is never a bad thing. Better inside than sorry!
Have the right gear. Then again, just because it's climbing toward 90 or even 100, going outside isn't completely out of the question. JohnsonBaby.com had some good tips for beating the heat that seem like common sense, but are good to remember: dress in lightweight, light-colored clothing, stick to shaded areas (where the temperature may be considerably less), bring a spray bottle of water for a quick cool down, and for goodness sake, use sunscreen!
Do NOT leave your child in the car. I'm so paranoid, I don't even close the automatic doors on the minivan until I'm buckled in. That way, if I keel over for some strange reason, surely someone in the parking lot will notice the open car doors and assist my kids. Crazy? Yes. But I'm a mom. Crazy is just part of the job description. And that leads me to...
I repeat, better inside than sorry. According to the National Weather Service, heat is one of the major causes of weather-related deaths. Your child may experience heat differently from you. According to an article on ivillage.com, babies and children sweat less, heat-up faster, and have faster metabolisms than adults, all which contribute to heating up quicker. Watch for flushed faces and keep everyone hydrated, and if you're feeling hot, it's possible your kid is hotter. Just remember, if it really is too warm to be outside and you're feeling housebound, Quail Springs Mall, Bouncin' Craze, Unpluggits, Artic Edge Ice Arena, and many other Edmond and north OKC locations have great indoor fun--no sunglasses required.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Free summer learning - Keeping the kids sharp (and entertained) through library programs
Every few months I teach a creative writing workshop for teenagers through the Metropolitan Library System. Whether it's a one-day workshop or a six-week long course, I always find that the kids and I spend a great deal of time laughing and talking about one of our favorite subjects--you know, books. Oh yeah, and we do some writing too.
I feel blessed to be part of a library system that works so hard to provide quality programming for all ages, with a special emphasis on children's learning and development. I am also a member of several official and unofficial "Moms" groups, and many of us with preschoolers enjoy the opportunity, especially during the week, to get the kids out of the house, away from Dora the Explorer, and in a stimulating environment. It doesn't hurt that other parents are there. Mommies and daddies need playdates too!
I talked to Amy Thomas, Children's Librarian at Edmond Library, about what the library seeks to do with these programs. Here's what she said:
"We look for programs that will educate and encourage curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning. We hope to introduce children to new information, a new experience, a new style of music, or new art form that they may not have encountered before."
Thomas also mentioned that the possibilities for programs "are as limitless as the creativity in our community. There are so many talented people out there who, thankfully, are willing to share their gifts and knowledge with our children."
For example, here are just a few of the fun things coming up at the Edmond Library in July and August:
Preschool Story Time (Mondays)
Mother Goose on the Loose (Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
Summer Movie: Magic Schoolbus: Bugs, Bugs, Bugs! (July 30)
The Magic Archeologist (July 16)
Pajamatime (Thursdays)
Yu-Gi-Oh! Tournament (second Saturday of each month)
And that's just the beginning (check out more here). Other nearby libraries, such as Belle Isle and Northwest, have a great activity lineup as well.
"I can tell the library staff really tries to find programs that will entertain the kids and get them coming to the library over the summer," said Terra Snavely, Edmond mom of three. She adds that she especially likes the summer arts programs that many of the branches offer.
Of course, the library has its reasons for these programs. "We want the library to become a place that is familiar and comfortable for children and their families, someplace they will return to over and over again throughout their lives," said Thomas about whether they hoped the programs would stimulate a child's interest in the library.
Well, its hard to argue with that. Seems like something most parents might be on board with.
So here's to learning...and reading...and taking advantage of a place that has even more to offer than books.
I feel blessed to be part of a library system that works so hard to provide quality programming for all ages, with a special emphasis on children's learning and development. I am also a member of several official and unofficial "Moms" groups, and many of us with preschoolers enjoy the opportunity, especially during the week, to get the kids out of the house, away from Dora the Explorer, and in a stimulating environment. It doesn't hurt that other parents are there. Mommies and daddies need playdates too!
I talked to Amy Thomas, Children's Librarian at Edmond Library, about what the library seeks to do with these programs. Here's what she said:
"We look for programs that will educate and encourage curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning. We hope to introduce children to new information, a new experience, a new style of music, or new art form that they may not have encountered before."
Thomas also mentioned that the possibilities for programs "are as limitless as the creativity in our community. There are so many talented people out there who, thankfully, are willing to share their gifts and knowledge with our children."
For example, here are just a few of the fun things coming up at the Edmond Library in July and August:
Preschool Story Time (Mondays)
Mother Goose on the Loose (Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
Summer Movie: Magic Schoolbus: Bugs, Bugs, Bugs! (July 30)
The Magic Archeologist (July 16)
Pajamatime (Thursdays)
Yu-Gi-Oh! Tournament (second Saturday of each month)
And that's just the beginning (check out more here). Other nearby libraries, such as Belle Isle and Northwest, have a great activity lineup as well.
"I can tell the library staff really tries to find programs that will entertain the kids and get them coming to the library over the summer," said Terra Snavely, Edmond mom of three. She adds that she especially likes the summer arts programs that many of the branches offer.
Of course, the library has its reasons for these programs. "We want the library to become a place that is familiar and comfortable for children and their families, someplace they will return to over and over again throughout their lives," said Thomas about whether they hoped the programs would stimulate a child's interest in the library.
Well, its hard to argue with that. Seems like something most parents might be on board with.
So here's to learning...and reading...and taking advantage of a place that has even more to offer than books.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
My wishlist for my children's America - On Independence Day
Many of us have much to be thankful for in this country. It would be hard for anyone to deny that it is, in general, a great place to live. It's not that we don't have people living in poverty, because we do. It's not that we don't have hate and bigotry; we've got that too. It's not perfect. But on Independence Day, we can be grateful for quite a bit. We should be grateful to those who gave their lives to make this a country; to the men and women who fought for race and gender equality; and to those who work to ensure we all have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These are battles that still rage. But at least we get to fight them.
I'm a little obsessed with dystopian novels right now (think Hunger Games, 1984, This Perfect Day, Legend, and Divergent). I had to take a break so my paranoia would die down and my husband would stop giving me the raised-eyebrow look. But I'm obsessed with what our country will look like a hundred or so years from now. I'm fascinated by the possibilities for technology, but also the change in political and global climate. But of course, I won't be alive to worry about it. However, my kids and grandkids (and so on) will inherit what we make of our country today, so I have ten wishes for the America that will be theirs.
1. A country where everyone has a voice. Race and gender are no longer hurdles for voting, but representation of women and many minority groups is still way down in state and Federal government. We need to raise up politicians who really want to serve, of both genders and all races.
2. A country with top-notch education. The reports of our children falling behind others in the world is disheartening. We're a bright bunch. Public schools and universities must continue to improve and innovate to stay ahead of the game.
3. A country that understands its stewardship of the environment. We've only got one planet. Best not to screw that up!
4. A country that still rewards innovation and hard work. We have a rich history of talented inventors and entrepreneurs, and we need education and job opportunities that will help discover those brilliant individuals in the next generation.
5. A country that celebrates its soldiers and public servants. My brother gets deployed next month, and I'm thrilled to be living in a country that supports and honors our soldiers and their families, even if they disagree with what they are sent to do. Although federal employees get a bad rap sometimes, it's important to remember they too work hard to make this country a better place to live.
6. A country where anyone can dream big. Whether you were born in a box or a mansion, this is a country where every child has the chance to dream about bettering his or her circumstances. Let's keep is that way! (Refer to numbers 3 and 4 above.)
7. A country that has more love than hate to give. "Love your neighbor as yourself" says it all.
8. A country that cares about the downtrodden. Bad luck, bad decisions, natural disasters, and ill-timed deaths can all affect someone's circumstances. We have typically been a country with big hearts (both here and abroad). Personally, I believe that's why we're blessed.
9. A country that has powerful allies. Oh, Mr. Snowden. You little stinker. Why are you tearing us down? We need our allies. We do.
10. A country that is a positive force for the rest of the world. Giving to the poor. Holding to a high standard in war and peace. A technological and economic powerhouse. A government that is an example for others. Lofty ideals, I know. But we are capable of them all.
Now, I just have to do my part to make it come true.
I'm a little obsessed with dystopian novels right now (think Hunger Games, 1984, This Perfect Day, Legend, and Divergent). I had to take a break so my paranoia would die down and my husband would stop giving me the raised-eyebrow look. But I'm obsessed with what our country will look like a hundred or so years from now. I'm fascinated by the possibilities for technology, but also the change in political and global climate. But of course, I won't be alive to worry about it. However, my kids and grandkids (and so on) will inherit what we make of our country today, so I have ten wishes for the America that will be theirs.
1. A country where everyone has a voice. Race and gender are no longer hurdles for voting, but representation of women and many minority groups is still way down in state and Federal government. We need to raise up politicians who really want to serve, of both genders and all races.
2. A country with top-notch education. The reports of our children falling behind others in the world is disheartening. We're a bright bunch. Public schools and universities must continue to improve and innovate to stay ahead of the game.
3. A country that understands its stewardship of the environment. We've only got one planet. Best not to screw that up!
4. A country that still rewards innovation and hard work. We have a rich history of talented inventors and entrepreneurs, and we need education and job opportunities that will help discover those brilliant individuals in the next generation.
5. A country that celebrates its soldiers and public servants. My brother gets deployed next month, and I'm thrilled to be living in a country that supports and honors our soldiers and their families, even if they disagree with what they are sent to do. Although federal employees get a bad rap sometimes, it's important to remember they too work hard to make this country a better place to live.
6. A country where anyone can dream big. Whether you were born in a box or a mansion, this is a country where every child has the chance to dream about bettering his or her circumstances. Let's keep is that way! (Refer to numbers 3 and 4 above.)
7. A country that has more love than hate to give. "Love your neighbor as yourself" says it all.
8. A country that cares about the downtrodden. Bad luck, bad decisions, natural disasters, and ill-timed deaths can all affect someone's circumstances. We have typically been a country with big hearts (both here and abroad). Personally, I believe that's why we're blessed.
9. A country that has powerful allies. Oh, Mr. Snowden. You little stinker. Why are you tearing us down? We need our allies. We do.
10. A country that is a positive force for the rest of the world. Giving to the poor. Holding to a high standard in war and peace. A technological and economic powerhouse. A government that is an example for others. Lofty ideals, I know. But we are capable of them all.
Now, I just have to do my part to make it come true.
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