05 March 2013

No TV...No Rest...for Me

So last week I decided to try an experiment with Carter. No tv and no iPad Monday-Thursday. It's not like his usage was out of control but he has the tendency to "forget" to go to the bathroom whenever he's watching "Team Umizoomi" or a "Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed" video for the five millionth time on YouTube. Well, I was so happy with the results that I decided to keep it going this week.

Update: it's only Tuesday and I'm exhausted. This whole no tv and iPad thing has the indirect effect of creating a lot more work for me. Now that Carter no longer has his tv friends to keep him company, I'm his new favorite playmate. I have read more kids books, played with more puzzles, and sang more nursery rhymes in two days than I care to repeat. Last night, after I put Carter to bed (at 7:30 pm mind you) I was so pooped, I was ready to climb into bed myself. In fact, I can barely keep my eyes open while I'm typing this. Man, being a parent is a lot of work. You'd think I would have accepted this by now but I keep getting reminded of the fact in new and different ways. And the scary part is I'm just getting started (laughing...no crying hysterically)!!!

How apropos that our pastor's sermon on Sunday mentioned how selfless mothers are with their children. His reference involved new moms getting up for night time feedings and how this is not because it's something we want to do, but rather, it's completely for the best interest of the child. Well, I'm going to borrow that sentiment for what I'm trying to do by reducing Carter's tv/iPad time. Clearly, doing so is not good for me (at least not in the short term) but I believe it's in his best interest to explore different activities and find some enjoyment outside of technology.

I'll let you know how we're doing in a few weeks. Pray for me...please.

29 January 2013

Apple Cinnamon Muffins-So Good I Had To Post

I made some apple cinnamon muffins this morning for a play date. They were so yummy and easy to make. Here's the recipe:

Muffin Batter

1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
3/4 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil


Topping

1/3 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup white sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
6 tablespoons cold butter, sliced


1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease or line 12 muffin cups with baking cups.

2. For batter, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, allspice, and salt in a large bowl. Once combined, add eggs, milk, and oil, and stir until a smooth batter forms. Fold in apples and stir lightly.

3. Spoon batter into muffin cups.

4. For the topping, combine flour, sugar, and cinnamon in small bowl. Add slices of butter and then use a pastry blender, fork, or your fingers to mix ingredients together until crumbles are formed. Distribute crumbles evenly on top of muffins.

5. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean when middle of muffin is pierced.