Parenting Lessons from Mama Bear

The majority of you already know that I adore the Berenstain Bear books. They were my favorites as a kid. I would sit in my room for hours and read my entire collection of them. A collection I’ve added to since then and now share with my boys. As I read them now, as an adult, I find myself relating to Mama Bear a lot! I’m Mama Bear all the way. I have come to the realization that I have learned many of my parenting skills through Mama Bear.

For instance, Messy Room. This one was my all time favorite BB book ever. This moment right here…yes, I do this. When I get fed up or they are misbehaving I threaten the boys with a BOX. A box I will fill up with toys if they keep pushing my buttons. She knew how to get to those cubs and remedy a situation.
Messy Room

And this one too. We take manners very seriously around here. There are consequences for rudeness and bad attitudes.

manners

Think of Those in Need is one of our newer ones. We often talk about how we have too much stuff and there are others out there who need things more than we do. We go through our things as a team and donate what we no longer need or use (I then gather more after they go to bed).

too much stuff

Then there are the lectures on junk food. Fueling your bodies with the food you need. Mama gets all the junk out of the house and offers healthy alternatives. Go Mama!

healthy food

I seem to find myself in Mama’s shoes all of the time. Especially, when Papa is put into the mix with the kids (junk food, trouble with chores, too much tv). He’s just a giant cub. Mama is a little out number, just like me, but she has some great ideas on how to get her crew into shape. Mama and I need to share a glass of wine some time.

Gifts for Mom – Under $20

under $20 gift ideas for mom

Mother’s day to me is more about indulging in a little extra sleep and having my coffee brought to me in bed. That makes me happy. I don’t expect presents, just a small token of appreciation like extra hugs and kisses. However, here’s a little list of gift ideas under $20.

1.) Hand-printed terracotta potted plant. Purchase a plant and have the kids use ceramic paint and put a hand-print on the side of the pot. Cuteness.

2.) Clean the bathroom, I mean SCRUB it everywhere. Especially in a house full of BOYS! Get the walls gentlemen!

3.) A framed hand-print tree. I saw this idea on Pinterest and fell in love! Easy, inexpensive, and an absolute treasure!

4.) Gift-card to the bookstore where she can spend some quiet time.

5.) I personally would love this photo lens travel coffee mug.

6.) Mom’s favorite sweet treat.

7.) Plan a picnic. Nothing better than quality time together as a family and not being the one who has to prepare everything.

8.) Purchase a porcelain pen and have the kids draw or write a special message to mom on platter or mug.

9.) Plant some of mom’s favorite flowers. My favorite is hydrangea. My mother gifted me a beautiful hydrangea plant last year and I’m thrilled to see it starting to return to life right now.

10.) Target has some great bold spring scarves this season for on $14.99. Add a little color to mama’s wardrobe.

What are your favorite gifts to give or  receive for Mother’s Day?