Brooke Porter – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com Here today, better tomorrow. Fri, 06 Nov 2015 10:13:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.3 https://wp-media.familytoday.com/2020/03/favicon.ico Brooke Porter – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com 32 32 7 ways to help your wife feel refreshed and renewed https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/7-ways-to-help-your-wife-feel-refreshed-and-renewed/ Fri, 06 Nov 2015 10:13:10 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/7-ways-to-help-your-wife-feel-refreshed-and-renewed/ Does your wife need a break? Is she burnt out? Use these 7 fail-proof methods to put the spunk back…

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Men aren't the only ones who wish there was an actual button to reset wives after a stressful week. Women, too, would love a quick fix to calm their nerves, clear their minds and feel renewed.

While a magic button doesn't exist (yet), here are seven tried-and-true ways to help your wife feel rejuvenated again:

1. Listen and validate

When you realize that your wife has had one of those days, pull her into a tight hug and ask her what's on her mind. When she starts to unload, really listen. Sometimes she doesn't want you to solve her problems. She just wants a listening ear, a validating voice and a reassuring promise that everything will get better.

2. Clean up the house together

The last thing your wife wants to do at the end of a long day is clean up the house alone. Taking the time to do the dishes together will give you two the opportunity to talk and reconnect after a long day apart. Helping her to clean the house shows that you appreciate her, and are also there to support her in everything she does.

3. A cozy blanket

Whether or not your wife's love language is receiving gifts, she will look forward to melting into a luxurious blanket after a hard day. There's something so validating about a warm blanket that engulfs you, especially if the kids have grown too old for sticky kisses and bedtime snuggles. To really elevate her day, pop some popcorn, put on a chick flick and have her blanket ready on the couch.

4. A massage

Your wife may have a full-time job, be a stay-at-home mom or a busy volunteer in the community. Whatever her daily duties include, her body is sore by day's end. She may not express it, but she would benefit from a quiet, relaxing hour where the focus is 100 percent on her. So, take the time to let her know how important she is by rubbing her shoulders and feet.

5. Kid-free afternoon

A lot can happen when Mom gets an afternoon to herself. Just think of the possibilities. She won't have to dodge flying crackers while grocery shopping. She can catch up with her sisters while she window-shops at the mall or relax at the local bookstore. Whatever she chooses to do is anyone's guess, but one thing is for certain. She will come home a new woman with a burst of energy.

6. Dinner reservations

Tell your wife to trade in her mom uniform, yoga pants and your old T-shirt, for a dress, and take her to a nice dinner to remind her that she's your beautiful partner. Having an adult conversation with the man she loves will revive her mind and sustain her for whatever lies ahead. Good food (that she doesn't have to cook or clean up) doesn't hurt, either.

7. Be Intimate

It's safe to say many women prefer emotional intimacy over physical intimacy. You may write her notes and strategically hide them around the house, or cuddle with her during a movie without an ulterior motive. Now, cuddling may seem like physical intimacy, but that sort of comfort qualifies for emotional security and comfort. Take our word for it. Compliment her when she least expects it and remind her why you love and married her.

With a combination of alone time, validating support and a break from the kids, your wife is guaranteed to feel relaxed.

Remember, while dinner and a massage are momentary, a luxurious blanket will last and renew much longer. Be sure to check out Minky Couture to find the right blanket for your sweetheart. Because what's better than a gift that keeps on giving?

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10 things every husband needs to do for his wife https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/10-things-every-husband-needs-to-do-for-his-wife/ Thu, 30 Apr 2015 08:29:27 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/10-things-every-husband-needs-to-do-for-his-wife/ Wondering what to give your wife on Mother's Day? Here's a list of sweet surprises and ideas to make her…

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Nowadays, millions of gifts are available at the click of a button. They're easy, mostly affordable and shipped right to your door. With little effort, you can check "buy wife gift" off the list. But is that really enough for the woman who spends every waking minute raising the kids and keeping your home afloat?

Why not give her something that will make her cry, hold her hand over her mouth or give you the look that says "you are the best!" Here's a list of 10 things you can do to show the woman in your life that you love and appreciate her on Mother's Day.

1. A love note

Remember when you were dating? You'd leave cute notes in strategic locations that made her heart skip a beat and reassured her that you loved and cherished her. Here's a little secret: she still wants love notes. Regardless of how long you've been married, sneak a note in her makeup bag, in the pocket of her purse or on a sticky note in the egg carton. Better yet, all over the house for her to find throughout the big day. Tell her you can't wait to see her, you think she's beautiful first thing in the morning and that she wears pregnancy well. We promise she will love it.

2. Alone time

One of the ultimate gifts a mother can receive is time to herself. If your wife likes staying in, take the kids out for a few hours and let her read a book or catch up on her shows at home. If she needs to leave the house, send her out with some cash and a night on the town alone or with some friends. Tell her to buy a new outfit, get her nails done or see a movie. (And be sure to have the house clean and kids asleep when she gets home.)

3. Homemade movie

Most computers or smartphones come with user-friendly apps and programs to create short videos. Nothing will give Mom a bigger lump in her throat than seeing a heartfelt video from the ones she loves. Consider interviewing your kids separately on what they love most about their mom, or some of their favorite memories of her. Piece them together with a sweet song in the background and, boom, home run.

4. A massage

OK, so this falls under the "purchased" category we're trying to steer clear of, but this one is safe. A mom's muscles bend and twist, lift and carry all day long - kids, groceries, fallen crumbs. Give her the physical relief she needs and send her to the swanky spa downtown for a relaxing, restorative massage.

5. Romantic dinner

Along the lines of your dating days, take your woman out for a nice meal - open her car door, compliment her and keep your eyes off the football game playing near the bar. Change things up by leaving her a note in the morning: "Good morning, sweetie. I found a babysitter for tonight. Wear your favorite dress and be ready for a romantic dinner at 7."

6. Breakfast in bed

And we're not talking frozen waffles. If she loves eggs Benedict, search the Web for an easy recipe and make it happen. If she likes pancakes, have the little ones help out. Decorate the plate with fruit and some hand-picked flowers. She will love being doted on, and effort sure speaks volumes.

7. A comfy, go-to T-shirt

Being a mom can be tricky. Sometimes her feminine identity is muddied with an internal battle: "I want to look cute, but I need something that can handle dirt and spit-up, and yet something my husband will still find me attractive in." Cariloha created clothing made from the bamboo plant that's just that - soft, durable and still fashionable. Every mom's dream.

8. That thing she's been eyeing for months

She's dropped hints, she's told you how it's finally on sale and nonchalantly mentioned how cute it would look with her colors. She knows it may be above the budget, but boy does she want it. Surprise her and leave it somewhere she will find it when she gets home-it will make her day.

9. Snuggle and a movie

Yes, we said it - snuggling. Women need to feel loved, whether or not their love language is physical touch. There's something comforting about being held while enjoying a nice movie on the couch with a bowl of her favorite treats. If you really want to spoil her, run your fingers through her hair or scratch her back.

10. A local overnight stay

Planning a child-free vacation can feel daunting. However, a one-night "staycation" at a nice hotel downtown is doable and just as fun. It's just what Mom needs to recharge her batteries: actual conversations with the man in her life, a hot tub and room service. Total relaxation for the woman you love.

Cariloha believes everyone deserves luxury on their special day. Seize the moment to spoil her, pamper her and surprise her with a day of luxury she will love. Visit Cariloha.com for more gift ideas that will make your woman feel the love she truly deserves.

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10 inspiring passages from the New Testament that will heal your soul https://www.familytoday.com/family/10-inspiring-passages-from-the-new-testament-that-will-heal-your-soul/ Fri, 20 Mar 2015 10:00:10 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/10-inspiring-passages-from-the-new-testament-that-will-heal-your-soul/ Having a rough day, or feeling a bit discouraged? This list of inspiring quotes from the New Testament is sure…

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The New Testament is home to thousands of inspirational scriptures from the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and his disciples. Since you may not find the time to read it cover to cover today, we've compiled a list of 11 inspirational verses to help get you through the week.

1. "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7).

Plaster this scripture on a mirror, your phone background or on your ceiling to read as your personal montage first thing in the morning. The spirit of fear is not from God - he has given you power, a strong mind and the ability to love.

2. "He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it" (Matt. 10:39).__

A good reminder that when you're feeling bad about yourself - or your circumstances - get out and serve someone else. In the process you will find your purpose and more happiness.

3. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28).

Oftentimes we forget that we don't have to go through this life alone. We forget that Jesus performed the Atonement and felt everything we have felt. Here he invites everyone to come unload their stresses, pains, fears and weakness and he will give us relief.

4. "And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him" (Matt. 4:19-20).

Simon, Peter and Andrew were fishing in the sea of Galilee when Jesus approached them. They had no idea who he was or what he stood for, but they felt something. And they straightway left their nets. They didn't ask questions, they didn't look back or converse with each other doubtingly. They dropped their nets and followed the Savior with no hesitation.

5. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matt. 5:16).

The Sermon on the Mount is one of the most powerful sermons of all time. Jesus encourages us to do good, but more importantly to be good - so much so that people will see your light, give credit to God and want to be more Christlike.

6. "So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her" (John 8:7).

A classic parable taught by the Savior reminding Christians everywhere that unless we are without sin (which we aren't), then we should not - and cannot - judge another.

7. "But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you" (Luke 6:27).

Maybe it's a neighbor, an estranged sister, a defiant child or conniving in-law. Whomever it is, love them. Pray for them. Serve them and forgive them. It seems impossible, but it's not. With help from the one who created us all, forgiveness and love are possible. Letting go of those harbored feelings will surely heal your soul.

8. "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Luke 12:34)

In a world where more is better, it's difficult to keep an eternal perspective. Is your focus on Instagram likes more than spiritual likes? Do you care more about what your coworkers think of you than what your spouse does? Is that dream car consuming your every thought? If so, it's time for some self-evaluating.

9. "Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed" (St John 20:29).

How often do we require evidence before exercising faith? Thomas, an apostle of the Savior, had to see the resurrected Lord with his own eyes before he could believe he really returned as he said he would. Jesus took the opportunity to teach him - and all of us - that while believing is good, it's better to believe without seeing.

10. "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him" (James 1:5).

It's safe to say we all lack wisdom, whether it be educational, spiritual or otherwise. Maybe you lack wisdom in raising children as a first-time mom. Or maybe you lack wisdom in how to navigate through difficult college courses. Whatever the struggle is, God gives wisdom, support and peace - generously - to those who ask.

For more uplifting - and true - media, tune into NBC's 12-part series "A.D. The Bible Continues,"which picks up where mash hit miniseries "The Bible" left off.

#ADTheSeries premieres Easter Sunday, April 5 at 9/8c on NBC.

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7 ways you may be ruining your child https://www.familytoday.com/family/7-ways-you-may-be-ruining-your-child/ Wed, 26 Nov 2014 09:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/7-ways-you-may-be-ruining-your-child/ You've probably done more than one of these. If you don't watch out, you could be setting your child up…

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Your child is screaming their lungs out when they should be taking their morning nap. You're up against a wall with a project deadline and any ounce of focus you may have had is decimated. We've all been there, right? In an act of desperation for peace and quiet, you resort to what you feel is your only option: quit fighting him and plop him down in front of the television.

As parents, these situations seem to creep in on a daily basis. Some are situations we're aware of, but others are a bit sneakier and we are unknowingly hurting our children. To help expose you to the truth (sorry about that), here are seven ways you may be ruining your children.

1. Background television

Maybe you're not the plop-down-the-kid type of parent. More power to you. However, you may be guilty of what the American Academy of Pediatrics calls "background television." Maybe you have your favorite sitcom on while you're cooking dinner or cleaning the family room. Unbeknownst to you, your crawling infant is taking in more than you thought.

In a study conducted by the AAP, they found "the average child aged 8 months to 8 years is exposed to nearly 4 hours of background television over a 24-hour period." Eliminating overexposure will increase your child's cognitive abilities and prevent problems that occur with overstimulation. Instead, try background music or even sing to your little ones.

2. Spoiling

The Baby Gap clearance rack has been calling your name since yesterday, but you won't be able to make it before they close because you spent your afternoon at Target. With how cute your toddler is, it must be really difficult not to dress him up in the latest fashion trends - especially since social media begs to show off your model baby to all 3,052 of your friends.

We all know spoiling does nothing but hurt your child - and society - in the long run. Giving them more than they need creates a sense of entitlement and ingratitude. In the business world and in their future family setting, your children will still expect to get everything they want, and that's not reality. Help them discover now that the world does not revolve around them.

3. Excessive juice

Bummer, we know. But truth be told, juice fills your child up quickly and with empty calories, eliminating an appetite for a nutritious meal. The AAP suggests small amounts of 100 percent juice and not introduced until 6-9 months of age. Most kids love water, and it turns out it's pretty good for them, too.

4. Lack of discipline

Similar to spoiling, a lack of discipline affects more than the children involved. It's OK - and important - to say "no" sometimes. A lack of discipline teaches children that they can get away with anything, and that will not bode well in a school or social setting. Tantrums will become a close companion of yours at the grocery store, at church and at home. Do yourself a favor and put your foot down. Dig deep and find the patience to have good discipline in your home. Commit with your spouse to find rewards and consequences that work for your family. Your child - and their schoolteachers - will thank you later.

5. Lack of service opportunities

Children are a lot more perceptive than we sometimes give them credit for. Take the opportunity to teach your child the importance of service. Seek out a family in need and deliver a goodie basket or contact the local food bank and see if they need extra helping hands. Your children (especially the entitled ones) will quickly see there are other people in the world besides them, and even some with a lot less. Service teaches humility, gratitude and patience - who wouldn't want that?

6. Screen time

It's impossible to avoid this one and we've all been guilty of it - sure most Americans are "ruining" their children with screens. Next time you go out to dinner, look at how many children have a tablet or smartphone in a death grip two inches from their face. While it seems like a quick (albeit lazy) fix, screen time has more cons than pros: overstimulation, lack of interpersonal communication skills and exercise, just to name a few. Set boundaries, like a timer, for your child's screen time. Encourage outdoor activities and games that engage your child in face-to-face interactions.

7. Lack of work

Wouldn't it have been nice to have grown up on a farm? Morning chores that had to be done because animals' lives - and dinner - depended on it. While not all of us were blessed with a Midwestern upbringing, we can still teach the importance of work in the home. Yardwork, dishes, laundry and taking out the trash are all ways for your children to earn some money and feel the satisfaction of work. For extra motivation, let them pick out a toy they want and help them save toward it. Obviously the way you scrub the toilet will be better than your 6-year-old's attempt, but sometimes life lessons are more important than clean seats. But happiness, in the most important sense, comes from accomplishing something worthwhile.

Check out the Free To Choose Network YouTube channel for great videos on the importance of teaching kids responsibility in improving the world.

I didn't realize how much I was affecting my child

Tag your parents if they taught you the importance of service and gratitude!

http://bit.ly/2d2RGzj
#story

Posted by I Love My Family (FamilyShare.com) on Tuesday, September 20, 2016

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10 things every girl needs in her closet https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/10-things-every-girl-needs-in-her-closet/ Mon, 24 Nov 2014 09:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/10-things-every-girl-needs-in-her-closet/ Whether you're a daughter, mother, wife, student or all of the above, one thing is for certain: you have a…

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Whether you're a daughter, mother, wife, student or all of the above, one thing is for certain: you have a closet. What's not for certain is whether or not you have these 10 items in that closet. (Hint: you should.)

Here's a list of 10 things every woman should have in her closet, and with Christmas around the corner, men should take note.

1. The go-to jacket

From a morning hike with your husband to an evening flight with your kids, you will need a lightweight jacket to take along. The trick is finding one that's cute, multifunctional and durable. If you're lucky, you'll even land one with that has cool features - like UPF protection - so that your skin is safe, as well as your fashion reputation.

2. Jewelery that makes a statement

Jewelery should make you comfortable and provide a clear message about you. Don't shy away from bold colors or chunky designs if that fits your personality, or go for the softer tones that suit your style. A little jewelery always helps refine a mediocre outfit and helps you feel just like you should: worth a million bucks!

3. Comfy sweater

Need something classy but warm that is perfect for brunch with friends, a quick trip to the store or a 30 minute jog? The options are endless. A nice hoodie or sweater will keep you feeling warm and attractive even if you have a bunch of errands to run.

4. A little black dress

It's OK if black isn't your color. This classy dress is perfect for a myriad of occasions: work dinners, weddings, cocktail parties, date nights, funerals and job interviews. A well-fitted little dress goes a long way.

5. A pair of flats

Not only are flats comfortable, they're downright adorable. A pair of red flats adds a pop of color and sass to a would-be basic T-shirt and jeans duo. Flats can accompany you to the zoo, the grocery store or even a movie date. (Between us, you might want to have more than one pair.)

6. An amazing skirt

A-line, pencil or maxi, find a skirt that makes you comfortable but cute. This little baby has been known to turn heads, stop traffic and immediately induce a boost of confidence. With a little mixing and matching, one skirt can fit easily into a handful of different outfits.

7. Skinny jeans

Snug jeans offset a loose top and complement your body shape. If you haven't jumped on the skinny-jean train yet, you're not too late! They're not going away anytime soon. Perfect and casual during the day, they're easy to dress with heels or a jacket for an important business meeting or night out with friends.

8. Knee-high boots

Pair these boots with skinny jeans, a plaid shirt and a down-feather vest and head out the door. According to InStyle, "you'll look pulled together in a flash" - and who wouldn't want that.

9. Business suit jacket

A nice, fitted jacket can do a lot for your style and your confidence. Pair it with heels and skinny jeans or boots and a nice skirt, and you will rock that meeting/inteview/sale/neighborhood carpool in style.

10. Heels

Possibly the only item competing with the classy little black dress is a pair of high heels. Brightly patterned skirt? Throw on some basic heels. Job interview? You know where to turn. Church? Wedding? Girl's night out? You catch our drift. There's no denying that high heels make women feel feminine and confident.

Whether your closet space is large or small, or whether you are going out or staying in, a closet like this makes it easy to find something in-style so you look and feel your best everywhere you go.

With a unique sense of style, performance and sustainability inspired by one of the world's greatest adventurers, Royal Robbins will have something for everyone on your shopping list. For great prices and a versatile selection, check out our Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

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