Unfinished Objects: December 8: Holiday Style!

Do you have any UFOs in your house?

You know, Unfinished Objects!
Christmas crafts, crocheting, quilting - that scrapbook you started but never finished...or even putting together your Christmas cards!

It's more fun when you're not alone!
Bring your UFO and join other (crafty) gals the last Thursday of the month from 6:30-10pm. Make new friends and make progress on your UFO!

But what if I'm not crafty?
Come anyway! Address your Christmas cards, organize your photos, write a letter to a friend! Bring a project you've been wanting to work on, but haven't had time to finish with the kids around. Come see what we're working on and get inspired!

Next meeting is Thursday, December 8, 6:30-10pm in the Oak Room of the Campbell Church. Stay for the evening, or just stay for a little while! Refreshments provided.

Call 378-4900 for more information!

Recipe: Karen's delicious monkey bread!

Hey, MOPS moms! If you've been to one of our recent meetings, you've had the chance to try Karen's delicious monkey bread. She was kind enough to share the recipe, and who would have guessed it was this easy? Enjoy!!

Easy Butterscotch Coffee Cake (Monkey Bread)

1 - 25 oz package frozen dinner rolls (approx. 24 rolls)

3/4 cup brown sugar

1 - 3.5 oz package butterscotch cook and serve pudding mix (not instant)

1/4 cup white sugar

2 tsp cinnamon

1/2 cup melted butter

The night before, place frozen dinner rolls in greased Bundt pan. Mix pudding mix and brown sugar and sprinkle over rolls. Mix white sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle on top. Pour melted butter over all. Lightly cover with plastic wrap and leave on kitchen counter overnight to defrost and rise. In morning, preheat oven to 350 F, remove plastic wrap and bake bread for 30 minutes. Invert onto platter and serve warm.

MOPS is TOMORROW!

Hey Moms!

Our Wednesday MOPS meeting is tomorrow, November 9, from 9:30-11:30 am! Guest speaker and MOPS mom Amy Redelsperger will be speaking on Traditions: Creating meaningful traditions for your family, just in time for the upcoming holiday season! We'll have a light breakfast and free childcare as always. All are welcome--bring a friend! Looking forward to seeing you there.

Playdate: Cookie Decorating, Wednesday, October 26

Bring your kiddos and come for a cookie-decorating party on Wednesday, October 26! 10am

We'll be in the Oak Room of the Campbell Church, just downstairs from where MOPS usually meets - all are welcome, even if you've never been to a Campbell MOPS event before!

Please bring: undecorated cookies, decorating supplies, and your little one(s) to have some holiday fun!

Can't bring cookies? Come anyway... there will be plenty to go around!

See you there!

Are You a Busy Mom?

You need Super Mom!

Super Mom helps busy moms be better moms!

She would love to help YOU tackle some of your load—whether it’s driving kids to and from sports or other events, running errands, cooking meals for fridge or freezer, helping with homework or simply hanging out with you as a Mother’s Helper—Super Mom is here to save YOUR day! Rates start at $10-15/hr.

Melody was born and raised in San Jose, and is a home-schooling mom to 16 year old Emily. Melody actively volunteers with young children at both at Campbell Christian School and the Campbell Church. She is certified in CPR and first aid, has an excellent driving record and a complete background check. Her past adventures include PTF president of CCS for three years as well as working in the CCS front office for two years.

Need references? She has lots!

ph 261-0622 :: cell 429-3019 :: mhalfenger@gmail.com

Wednesday Playdate: Cookie Decorating!

The cookie decorating playdate is coming up! This Wednesday, at 10am, in the Oak Room of the Campbell Church (just downstairs from the room that MOPS typically meets in). Please bring: some undecorated cookies, some decorating supplies, and your little one(s) to have some holiday fun!

Can't bring cookies? Please come anyway... I'm sure there will be enough to go around! Looking forward to seeing you there!

October Playdate: Uesugi Farms

9:30am at Uesugi Farms Pumkin Patch, Morgan Hill

Join us at the pumpkin patch next Thursday, October 20, at Uesugi Farms.

They have train rides, a carousel, a petting zoo and more! We can meet around 9:30 am so those of us with little ones needing noon-ish naps can get back in the cars by naptime. They also have a great picnic area so bring your lunch and we can all eat together.

Hope to see you there!

FREE Childcare: TimeOut for Parents

FREE Childcare!

Everyone needs an occasional “time out” to recharge. Time to be alone, run errands,
or meet a friend without the kids!

The KidZone Children's Ministry wants to offer you a “Time Out” for FREE!

9am-12noon.
For infants through age 5.

Space is limited! Call to make a reservation no later than the Monday prior.
378-4900, x264

Friday, October 28

Friday, December 9

Mom's Night Out: Starbucks, Sept. 29!

It's almost here!

Our Mom's Night Out at Starbucks in the Nob Hill plaza on Campbell Ave. is this Thursday, September 29, at 7:00 pm! Come out after dinner and meet with other moms for some "you-time," and enjoy some discussion over a cup coffee or tea. We hope to see you there!

Unfinished Objects: September 29

Do you have any UFOs in your house?

You know, Unfinished Objects!
Crafts, crocheting, quilting - that scrapbook you started but never finished...

It's more fun when you're not alone!
Bring your UFO and join other (crafty) gals the last Thursday of the month from 6:30-10pm. Make new friends and make progress on your UFO!

But what if I'm not crafty?
Come anyway! Work on your baby book, organize your photos, write a letter to a friend! Bring a project you've been wanting to work on, but haven't had time to finish with the kids around. Come see what we're working on and get inspired!

Next meeting is Thursday, September 29, 6:30-10pm in the Oak Room of the Campbell Church.

Hosted by CCS teachers Christina Aronen and Lori Lee. EmailcampbellMOPS@gmail.com for more information!

4th Wednesday Playdate: Sept. 28!

Our group meets on the 2nd Wednesday of every month for regular meetings. In order to give us a chance to stay connected between meetings, and to give the kids more time to play together, we also meet on the 4th Wednesday of the month for a playdate! The times and locations for these may vary, so always check out the blog and/or Facebook to keep up with the latest. Got an idea for an upcoming playdate? We'd love to hear it! E-mail campbellmops@gmail.com!

This month's playdate is Wednesday, September 28, at 10am, at Everett Alvarez Jr. Park in Santa Clara. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Parents' Time Out--Free Childcare Sept. 30!

Moms and dads who are with their kids all day need an occasional “time out” to recharge. Time to be alone, run errands, or meet a friend without the kids! That's why the Campbell Church is offering FREE childcare on the last Friday of the month!

Time Out for Parents is fun, free childcare for infants through age 5, from 9 am to 12 noon.

Drop off your kids between 9:00am and 10:00am on Friday, September 30. Pick up anytime before noon.

Call 378-4900, x264 by September 26 to RSVP!
Please leave a message with your child(ren)’s name(s), age(s) and your contact information. This is a great opportunity for you and a friend to drop your children off together and go get a coffee and catch up!

Space is limited, so sign up ASAP!

Men need to connect, too!

The men in our lives also need opportunities to meet and connect with other men!

Men's BBQ is this Sunday, September 25, at 1pm, at Rainbow Park on Johnson Avenue & Rainbow Drive in San Jose. Fun, food, football, frisbee, and other games, too! A $5 suggested donation for food would be appreciated. All men are welcome!

Men's Fraternity is a great place for dads to find encouragement and support. It meets Wednesday evenings at 9pm or Friday mornings at 6am in the Oak Room of the Campbell Church. This post "Men's Fraternity - What's Up with That?" is a great window into how Men's Fraternity has made a difference in the life and marriage of one couple.

Call (408) 378-4900 with any questions.

MOPS meets Wednesday, Sept 14!

See you this week for the kick-off meeting of the fall! If this is your first time joining us, we're so glad you plan to come.

Campbell MOPS meets on the campus of the Campbell Church of Christ and Campbell Christian School. 1075 West Campbell Avenue in Campbell, between San Tomas Expressway and San Tomas Aquino Road. Parking is available behind the campus off of Victor Avenue. Just follow the signs in from the parking lot. Free childcare will be downstairs; moms will meet upstairs. A yummy, hot breakfast, coffee and tea will be available for the moms. Moms with new babies are welcome to bring them into the meeting.

See you on Wednesday - 9:30-11:30am.

Get to know... Nancy Stone, Mentor Mom

Mentor Mom Nancy Stone will be joining us for the MOPS meetings on Wednesdays this fall. Here are a few fast facts about Nancy!

Nancy Stone has a heart for young moms!

“I remember how difficult it was to raise a family. It was the hardest, yet, most rewarding career I ever had. My husband was great, but he traveled four days a week for fourteen years. If it was not for the encouragement of my mother-in-law, the Lord, and church family friends I would not have made it. I love encouraging these young women. The culture doesn’t always give them enough credit for the awesome job they do.”

A new bride of three years, Nancy and her husband Bob have a combined family of five grown children (2 girls, 3 boys), five in-law children “they’re our kids, too!” and ten grandchildren (ages 3-10).

“I have three children from my first marriage and Bob has two from his. We were both widowed after long marriages (37 and 37 years). Our family’s scope was greatly broadened by the adoption of my Korean daughter (adopted at age 11), and our Vietnamese daughter-in-law. We celebrate many customs in our family! Furthermore, I have helped raise foster kids who challenged and blessed our family.”

Nancy has had a wide variety of careers and jobs over the years.

“I taught elementary school until I was a mommy. I was able to be a stay-at-home mom until my three children were teenagers. At that time I went back to teaching on a secondary level at my kids’ high school. Since then I have had a variety of professions: retail store owner, outside sales person…corrections and later library furniture! My most fulfilling job, after parenting, was full-time Christian missionary staff. My first husband and I were on Campus Crusade for Christ staff ministering to college students at San Jose State, Stanford and Fresno State. When I was able, after a sales career, I joined the staff of Youth for Christ working with troubled teenagers. After a six-month Law Enforcement Chaplain course I became a licensed chaplain with the Sheriff and Police Departments of Sonoma Co. Experience with law enforcement led to being asked to be the chaplain at Sonoma Co. Juvenile Hall.”

Nancy is a California girl, but didn’t grow up in the Silicon Valley.

“I grew up on a small horse ranch in the hills of north Orange County. I attended Brea Olinda HS in Brea and college at Cal State Fullerton. I have a BA in English Literature, music and a California teaching credential.”

Here's a quick Q&A with Nancy as well!

How do you spend your time now?

"I am a retired new bride of 3 years. I enjoy studying and teaching the Bible, gardening, bird watching, walking, entertaining , grand parenting and flying."

Best bit of parenting advice you ever received?

"Always live your Christian walk in the home, and speak to your children with the same respect that you would a good friend."

What was your most embarrassing moment as a mom?

"I found out after my son graduated that he spent more than one afternoon in the counseling office of the High School where I was teaching."

What is your favorite way to be spoiled?

"Take me out to dinner then give me a foot massage."

Have you been to Oasis?

What is Oasis?

It is a place to retreat - to get away from the ordinary and annoying. A haven. A refuge.

A place to connect and rejuvenate. A place to recharge.

What is Oasis?

Join us on Saturday, October 8 to find out!

Unfinished Objects: September 1

Do you have any UFOs in your house?

You know, Unfinished Objects!
Crafts, crocheting, quilting - that scrapbook you started but never finished...

It's more fun when you're not alone!
Bring your UFO and join other (crafty) gals the last Thursday of the month from 6:30-10pm. Make new friends and make progress on your UFO!

But what if I'm not crafty?
Come anyway! Work on your baby book, organize your photos, write a letter to a friend! Bring a project you've been wanting to work on, but haven't had time to finish with the kids around. Come see what we're working on and get inspired!

Next meeting is Thursday, September 1, 6:30-10pm in the Oak Room of the Campbell Church.

Hosted by CCS teachers Christina Aronen and Lori Lee. Email campbellMOPS@gmail.com for more information!

Additional upcoming dates are September 29 and October 27.

Playdate, Anyone?

Hey moms! Looking for some fun on a Monday? Join other moms and kids at the home of Robin Hsueh this Monday, August 15 starting at 9:30am. Moms & kids are welcome to pack a lunch and stick around a bit. If you haven't yet been to one of our meetings but plan to join us this fall, here's a great time to meet a few of the moms from Campbell MOPS! All are welcome.

Need directions? Call 378-4900.

AWE: Saturday, August 13, 6pm

AWE is a casual, personal worship time of inspiring music and testimony. First time guests are invited to enjoy a free espresso drink from the Sacred Grounds coffee cart. Come early and enjoy some coffee in the courtyard! All are welcome, free childcare provided.

Saturday, August 13, 6-7:30 pm

Mommy and Me Hike

Join other MOPS moms and their kids on a hike to Deer Hollow Farm at Rancho San Antonioin Cupertino this Thursday, August 11 at 9:20am. Meet near the bathrooms in the parking lot.

This is an easy, stroller-friendly 1-mile hike. Be sure to bring snacks and water, it is an easy hike, but with little ones it can be a two hour round trip.

Email your cell phone number to campbellmops@gmail.com so we know how to look for and call/text if needed!

Just Another Day in Paradise

A great promotional video by another MOPs group - can you relate?

Mark your calendars--kickoff meetings in September!

Hey moms! It's still summer, but we're starting to gear up and plan for the fall MOPS season. We want to make sure to give you the dates so you can mark the kickoff meetings on your calendars! The Saturday group will meet on September 10, and the Wednesday group will have its first fall meeting on September 14. Both groups will be meeting in the same locations as last year (and if you're new, just follow the signs!), from 9:30-11:30 am. Free childcare, as always, will be provided, along with a light breakfast snack. Questions? Call 408.378.4900 or e-mail campbellmops@gmail.com

This year's theme is Momsense: Bold, Loving, Sensible. We'll be talking about how developing a mothering strategy is, in some ways, like playing a game: we might take advice from "experts," develop "house rules," "team up" with other moms, and have our plans changed by "chance" events. And, of course, have fun along the way!

We're looking forward to seeing you all in the fall, and watch this space for more ways to connect during the summer!

Free Backpacks and School Supplies

Know anyone who could use a little help going back to school? The Campbell Church is offering a free backpack and school supplies to kids in elementary, middle or high school on August 20 from 1:30-3pm, while supplies last. Free refreshments and a bounce house, too!

1075 West Campbell Avenue, between San Tomas Expressway and San Tomas Aquino Road. Call 378-4900 for more information.

Playdate at the park: Tomorrow!

Hey moms! We are going to be meeting tomorrow morning, at Jack Fischer Park, at 10am near the water feature! Bring sunscreen and plan for the kids to get wet! It looks like the weather will be perfect tomorrow (July 7) for our park playdate! New to MOPS? Come join us! I'll be there with my two kids (ages 2 and 4) and will be wearing a brown shirt. See you tomorrow!

Mom's Night Out: July 14!

Mark your calendars! Thursday, July 14, will be our next Mom's Night Out. MOPS mom Monica Sieh is hosting a game night at her home in Sunnyvale, at 7:30 pm. She'll provide the snacks and you can expect conversation and lighthearted fun! If you have a particular game you enjoy, feel free to bring it along! Watch your e-mail for directions, or e-mail campbellmops@gmail.com and we'll send them along!

Playdate at the Park! June 29, 10am

With the hot weather we've been having, MOPS mom Paige Hooper has organized a playdate at a great park in Campbell with a water feature to keep the kids cool. Mark your calendars for the morning of Wednesday, June 29, at 10am! Update: The location has been settled! We'll be meeting at Jack Fischer Park in Campbell. There's a water spray, sand, and shade for lots of fun! Bring swimsuits and towels for the little ones. See you there!

Last Spring Meetings: May 11 & 14!

Our last meetings for the spring session are this week!. The Wednesday group will meet May 11, where we'll watch video speaker Alexandra Kuykendall discuss Engaging in Healthy Relationships, and we'll discuss how to create a web of support by understanding and investing in our circle of relationships.

The Saturday group will meet May 14, for a fun, lighthearted, end-of-season party. We'll have a few activities to help you connect with other moms before the summer break.

As always, both groups will be providing a yummy light breakfast snack and free childcare! See you there!

Want to stay in touch over the summer? Watch this space or add us on Facebook, and as we learn about playdates or Mom's Nights Out, you'll be sure to be in the loop! Want to organize something? Drop us a note (e-mail campbellmops@gmail.com) and we'll help spread the word!

Pampered Chef Snacks & Raffle, Friday morning!

This Friday at 11:30am in the Birch Room at Campbell Church, MOPS mom Danielle Humphreys is hosting a Pampered Chef show. There will be a very short demo making salsa fresca as well as snacks and shopping (and if your children are signed up for Parents' Time Out, you will be done in time to pick up your children). With Mother's Day coming up, this is a good time to see what's available.

Danielle is also raffling away all of her host benefits at this event to four lucky winners, who will receive everything from free merchandise to deep discounts! You don't need to be present at the event to enter. E-mail Danielle for the full details about the raffle at this "Mystery Host Show"! Don't have her e-mail address? E-mail campbellmops@gmail.com and we'll help get you in touch!

If you're interested in checking out the products but can't make it to the show, you can also order from Danielle here http://www.pamperedchef.biz/dhumphreys. Be sure to enter her name as the host if you order online to earn your raffle ticket(s), and again Danielle would be happy to answer any questions.

Monthly Playdate: THURSDAY 9:30-11:30!

Remember that this month's end-of-month playdate is not on Wednesday, but it will be on Thursday, April 28, from 9:30-11:30 am! Please bring 6 filled Easter eggs and we'll have a mini egg hunt for the kids! Thanks to MOPS mom Kara Rocha for offering to host this event at her home! For directions, please e-mail campbellmops@gmail.com and we'll send her address along!

Quick Recipe: Shrimp Pasta

Here's another of the yummmy recipes that Chef Gini prepared for us on Saturday!

Shrimp in Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce with Angel Hair Pasta
From Mentor Mom and Personal Chef Gini Bortz

Servings: 6

8 oz angel hair pasta
12 oz roasted red peppers, jarred, drained
8 oz cream cheese, light, softened
1/2 c chicken broth, fat free
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 t red pepper, ground
2 lbs shrimp, frozen, uncooked (31-40)
1/4 c basil, fresh, chopped

Directions:
In a blender or food procesor, blend red peppers, cream cheese, broth and garlic until smooth, scraping the sides.

Pour mixture into a large skillet and bring to a simmer, about 5 minutes. Add raw shrimp and cook just until done,about 3-5 minutes.

Remove from heat and blend in chopped basil and serve.

Quick Recipe: Spinach and Sausage Pizza

From Mentor Mom Gini Bortz:

Spinach and Sausage Pizza
Healthy and fast - and a great way to sneak green veggies into your kids' diet!

3 oz. baby spinach
1 14 1/2 oz can tomatoes in juice, drained
1 pizza crust, 12 inch
1 lb. Italian sausage, browned
3 oz. Mozzarella cheese, grated

Place tomatoes in a fine-mesh strainer and press out as much liquid as possible. Spread spinach onto pizza crust. Top with tomatoes, sausage and mozzarella.

Preheat oven to 450. Bake 10 minutes until cheese is melted.

Quick Recipe: Pulled Pork Sandwiches

From Wendy: This recipe is so easy, according to Wendy "You almost can't call it a recipe!"

Prep time: 5 minutes
Six to eight servings, depending on how hungry you are!

2 jars Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ Sauce (you can find this at Safeway)

4-6 country style spareribs (boneless) OR 4 lbs (or so) pork shoulder

Place ribs, fat side up in crock pot and pour one jar of sauce over.
Cook on low for 8 hours.

Remove meant and discard sauce from pot. Shred and serve on rolls with fresh sauce from the second jar. For traditional style sandwiches, serve with cole slaw (Wendy says that KFC's slaw is the best - pick up a container on the way home).

Quick Recipe: Low-Fat Crock-Pot Chicken

Renee's Crock-Pot Spicy Chicken

Prep time: 10 minutes
About 8 servings

4 large chicken breasts (can be frozen still)
1 can black beans, rinsed
2 cans corn, drained
1 jar of salsa
1 package of shredded cheese

In crock pot layer one can of corn, then beans, then corn, then half jar of salsa, then all chicken, then last half of salsa. Cook 6-8 hours.

Serve on top of brown rice and sprinkle cheese on top.

For extra heat, we like medium salsa!

Easter is April 24!

If you're trying to decide what to do for Easter this year, why not consider spending the morning with other MOPS moms and families at the Campbell Church! There will be lots of fun activities for kids and meaningful devotions for parents. During both worship services there's fun Children's Church for kids age 3 through 3rd grade.

Sunday, April 24
Worship 8:30 and 11:15
Brunch, Kids' Crafts and Easter Egg Hunt 10am

And it's free!

Campbell Church is a GREAT place for kids (and families)!

Quick Recipe: Poppy Seed Chicken

Tara's Poppy Seed Chicken

6 chicken breasts (cubed and boiled)
2 cans cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 tubes Ritz crackers
2 T. poppy seed
2 sticks margarine, melted

Crumble 1 1/2 tubes of ritz crackers and mix with margarine and poppy seeds. Use mixture to cover bottom of a 9x13 inch pan. Combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Pour mixture over cracker mixture and spread evenly. Crumble remaining 1/2 tube of Ritz over the top of the dish and a little bit of poppy seeds. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.

Quick Recipe: Tortilla Soup

Blog Mama Monica is taking a break while they move across town. In the meantime, here is the first Quick Recipe in our series.

From Adelle: Super easy, healthy, flavorful (not spicy) and kid-friendly!
Prep time: 30 minutes

1 Rotisserie Chicken (from the grocery store) with bones removed.
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, or just shred with your fingers.
1 T. olive oil
1 t. chopped garlic
1/2 yellow onion, diced fine
1 can Bush's Seasoned Black Beans, drained
1 can Fire Roasted Tomatoes with Garlic
1 c. Trader Joe's frozen Roasted Corn*
2 cups chicken stock
1 tsp ground cumin

Saute onion and garlic in a bit of olive oil in the bottom of a 2 quart pan till translucent. Add beans, tomatoes (and juice), chicken stock, corn, cumin and shredded/chopped chicken.

Bring to a simmer. Serve whenever you're ready! This tastes even better the next day. Let your kids choose their own garnishes - we like fresh cilantro, a bit of sour cream or cheese (Cotija or Monterey Jack), sliced fresh avocado and/or tortilla chips.

*This is what makes this soup taste fabulous - plain frozen corn just doesn't bring the same flavor!

Saturday, April 9: Cooking Demonstration

Please join us on Saturday, April 9 for a cooking demonstration by Mentor Mom and Personal Chef Gini Bortz!

Chef Gini Bortz has been the owner of A La Carte Personal Chef Service for the last five years. She has been passionate about food and cooking since she was a young girl. She loves to curl up on the sofa with a hot cup of tea and a good cookbook! She also enjoys surfing the net for new recipes to try.

Having grown up in Texas, Gini enjoys preparing Southern "comfort" foods. And, having lived in California for 18 years, she enjoys preparing "California cuisine" as well as experimenting with the variety of ethnic and organic ingredients available in the Bay Area.

Chef Gini will be showing us some great time-saving methods for getting yummy dinners on the table in a flash. Moms are invited to share a favorite "quick" recipe that will be posted here on the website, as well as their favorite time-saving tips for the kitchen.

All are welcome - feel free to bring a friend!

Saturday, April 9 9:30-11:30am Free childcare provided!

Parents' Connection: Sundays at 10am

The Campbell Church's Parents' Connection class is doing a series on How to Raise Positive Kids in a Negative World. This series has been really eye-opening and has focused on things we can be actively doing to help foster positive growth in our children despite the "negative world" we live in. This past Sunday, video speaker Chip Ingram shared 8 keys to help build relationships that bond, as stronger relationships with our children increase the likelihood that they will embrace our values and beliefs. (And as a bonus, these tips are general enough to apply to relationships with other loved ones in our lives.)

Here are the 8 keys that he shared with us this past Sunday:
1. Unconditional Love. Even during times of crisis, it is critical that our children know that our love for them is unconditional.

2. Scheduled Time. Our children feel more connected to us if they can see that we take time out in our lives to make them a priority.

3. Focused Attention. Too often in today's society we find ourselves looking at a computer or TV screen, or too involved in a household chore to stop and really focus on our children, to let them know that they can have our undivided attention.

4. Eye Contact. Our children feel valued when we make that eye-to-eye contact with them when they are speaking.

5. Ongoing Communication. To build a bonding relationship with our children, communication needs to not just be a one-time event, but something that happens on an ongoing and consistent basis. Chip suggested three ways to implement ongoing communication as a family. The first is to make dinner together as a family a huge priority at an early age, to set good habits now for the years when children are older. The second is to make bedtime special--tell exotic and captivating bedtime stories, take time to discuss the best three things about your day and listen as your kids do the same. And the last is shared experiences--camping trips, playing basketball in the driveway, family game night... all of these types of "ongoing communication" are built around showing our kids we care by creating family habits and traditions that set family time as a high priority from a young age and continuing it as our children get older.

6. Meaningful Touching. One way to show that we love our kids is with appropriate, meaningful touching. Hug them. Kiss them. Wrestle with them. Tickle them. Give them piggy back rides. As we're all moms of preschoolers, I'm sure I'm not the only one who finds my children climbing all over me at the end of a long day... especially at this age, they really crave physical touch as one of their love languages, and that's what they're looking for when they try to turn Mom into a human jungle gym.

7. Have Fun Together. Turn the computer off and plug in to having fun with your kids. And here, Chip pointed out that sharing your faith with your kids can be fun and organic, not always structured and severe, illustrating this with an anecdote about how he used to pray with his children and take them out for ice cream--instead of teaching them to recite Bible verses, we can build celebrations of faith into their lives. It's about making time with your family an enjoyable experience for your children.

8. Pray Together Often. Prayers don't need to be long or elaborate. A game of basketball at night in the driveway can easily turn into looking up at a sky of beautiful stars and giving thanks.

Parents' Connection is a support group and Bible study for parents of preschool and elementary children. Meet more parents of young children, and enjoy the discussion and fellowship over a light breakfast snack. Simultaneously, Children's Ministry offers age-appropriate classes for children from infancy through 5th grade. Personally, I have found this class in particular to be a blessing to my family and to my marriage. The classes are Sundays from 10-11 am (Parents' Connection meets in the CCS Library, and anyone would be glad to help point you in the right direction), and all are welcome with no RSVP necessary.

Mom's Night Out: Chocolate! March 31

Our next Mom's Night Out is coming up! Next Thursday, March 31, we'll be gathering at Dolce Bella Chocolates. They have chocolates, wine, ice creams, coffee, pastries... I think the hardest part will be deciding what to order! At least they have their menus online so those of us who are planning types can check it out beforehand! Please join us there at 7:30 pm. It promises to be a great, relaxing night out and a good chance to connect with other women. Thanks to Danielle Humphreys for organizing!

Wednesday playdate: next week at Campbell Church!

Rain, rain, go away...

Our next Wednesday playdate will be next week, March 30, from 9:30-11:30 am in the Oak Room on the campus of the Campbell Church. All moms are welcome--you do not have to be a registered member of MOPS to join in! Toys and tables will be available for the kids as well as space for the moms to connect and visit in the same room. See you then!

Interested in Homeschooling?

Want to know more about homeschooling? There is a free information session coming up! "Introduction to Home Education" is Thursday, April 7, from 6:30-8:00pm in room A3 at the Santa Clara Convention Center. The meeting is sponsored by CHEA of CA. The website also has some useful links and resources for homeschooling parents!

Running Late

We've all had those mornings - one thing after another. One child has to go to the bathroom just as you're walking out the door, another one dumps a glass a milk in her lap and needs a change of clothes. We rush and plan and no matter how hard we try... suddenly, we are running behind.

Well guess what? At Campbell MOPS, you are NEVER late. We all know what it's like when things go wrong - but the last thing we want is for someone not to come to MOPS because they were afraid of being late.

Even if it's an hour past our start time - just show up anyway.

At Campbell MOPS, you'll be welcomed, encouraged and uplifted by time with other moms of young children.

At Campbell MOPS, you're never late. You're always right on time!

Family Movie Night!

KidZone Children's Ministry invites you and your kids to join us for enter:ACT about LISTENING - a fun family movie night! We'll watch the Veggie Tales movie: "Pistachio: The Boy Who Woodn't" and then there will be fun family activities designed for you and your kids to help them learn the importance of listening to their parents.

An optional light meal will follow of corn dogs, chips and lemonade, or you can bring a picnic your own.

And it's FREE!

Childcare available for kids age 3 and under. To RSVP for childcare, call 378-4900, x264


enter:ACT about Listening
Family Movie Night
Sunday, March 20
4:15-6pm
FREE - for parents and their kids age 4-5th grade.

Bring some comfy blankets and pillows - the best viewing seats are floor seats!

Craft Night: March 24!

Do you have any UFOs in your house?

You know, Unfinished Objects!

Crafts, crocheting, quilting - that scrapbook you started but never finished...

It's more fun when you're not alone!

Bring your UFO and join other (crafty) gals the last Thursday of the month from 6:30-10pm. Make new friends and make progress on your UFO!

But what if I'm not crafty?

Come anyway! Work on your baby book, organize your photos, write a letter to a friend! Bring a project you've been wanting to work on, but haven't had time to finish with the kids around. Come see what we're working on and get inspired!

Next meeting is Thursday, March 24 in the Oak Room of the Campbell Church. Email campbellMOPS@gmail.com for more information!

Community-Minded Kids with Teresa Drake: Wednesday

One of today’s parenting hot topics is children and their sense of entitlement. Speaker Teresa Drake (who did a great talk last year on Anger Management for moms) identifies some of the root causes of “entitlement” as she addresses our culture of over-parenting, over-scheduling, and over-indulging our children – which often produces self-centered children who lack gratitude, empathy, problem solving skills and other basic abilities. “Raising Community-Minded Kids” offers easy and useful, age-appropriate ideas to counter this growing problem. Moms will learn ways to foster a We-focused attitude in the hearts of their children, instead of a Me-focused attitude, ranging from simple chores completed at home — a child’s first community — up through adolescence.

As always, childcare is free and there will be a light breakfast. See you there!

Parents' Time Out--Free Childcare Mar. 25!

Moms and dads who are with their kids all day need an occasional “time out” to recharge. Time to be alone, run errands, or meet a friend without the kids! That's why the Campbell Church is offering FREE childcare on the last Friday of the month!

Time Out for Parents is fun, free childcare for infants through age 5, from 8:30am to 12 noon.

Drop off your kids between 8:30 and 9:30am on Friday, March 25.
Pick up anytime before noon.

Call 378-4900, x264 by March 19 to RSVP!
Please leave a message with your child(ren)’s name(s), age(s) and your contact information. This is a great opportunity for you and a friend to drop your children off together and go get a coffee and catch up!

Space is limited, so sign up ASAP!

Women's Retreat: April 1-3

Are You Loving Well? With video speaker Beth Moore.

We all deal with people who are a joy to love and those who are difficult to love. Come join us for a fun-filled weekend as we learn how to love well. Through video, we will hear from best-selling author and teacher Beth Moore, enjoy fun fellowship with other women, laugh our heads off, eat, stay up late, make new friends, and enjoy old friends. It’s a weekend you don’t want to miss!

April 1-3, 2011 at the San Damiano Retreat Center, Danville
Cost: $185 (Seniors $175)
Includes 6 meals, 2 nights lodging and all materials
$10 discount if registered by February 20!

Mom's Night Out: Sakura Nails!

It's time for a night of pampering, moms! It's not too late to join in the fun.

We're planning to get together and have snacks, light conversation, and much-deserved mani/pedicures! Come join us at Sakura Nail Bar in Japantown, San Jose, on Saturday, March 5 at 6pm!

You can also check out their website--it looks so relaxing... we'd love to see you there!

Enter:ACT about LISTENING, March 20!

Listening to parents is an important skill for kids to learn. The Campbell Church is offering a FREE event for kids and families age 4 through Grade 5. Kids age 3 may attend at parents’ discretion. Childcare available for kids 3 and under – RSVP to 378-4900, x264

Family movie night! Watch the Veggie Tales story of Pistachio: The Boy That Wouldn’t and then share in fun activities that help kids learn that:

· You are too young to always know what’s best

· Parents are there to teach us life lessons

· There are consequences to abandoning what parents say

· Listening and obeying is the BEST way.


Come join us on March 20 from 4:15-6pm. A light dinner of corn dogs, chips and lemonade will be served after the event. Bring a sack meal if you prefer!

Chocolate Tasting! Saturday, Mar. 12!

Do you love CHOCOLATE? Guest Speaker Laura Joseph will host our gourmet chocolate tasting party, which will include domestic and international treats. If you haven't been to MOPS before, this is a great one to check out and invite a friend to. Come treat yourself to a little decadence and learn how tasting parties can bring families together! We'll see you there!

Get to know... Debbie Davis, Mentor Mom!

Debbie Davis, one of our Mentor Moms, has been working with and serving the families of the Campbell Church and Campbell Christian School for 24 years. She has had an amazing motherhood journey, with both blessings and sorrows, and is now sharing her wisdom and experiences with the moms on Wednesdays!

Debbie was born in New York, and grew up surrounded by relatives. “My mom came from a family of nine siblings, so there were plenty of cousins. I remember always playing outdoors in good weather, and when the snows came, my sister and I and several cousins played in our basement for hours. We all have fond memories of those times of creativity and camaraderie. Oh, and the holiday dinners hosted at each other's homes were so memorable!”

Debbie spent her teen years in New Jersey. “Friends played a more important role at that time, not only because of the developmental stage of life, but also because now we lived further away from most of our relatives My aunt and uncle from Sacramento were visiting in the Summer of '69 and extended an invitation to me to come out to California. So at age 20, in the Winter of 1970, I left my childhood home and my family to stay with my aunt and uncle, secured a job at the State Capitol, and met the man I was to marry all in a matter of months.”

Their first two years of marriage were spent in Sacramento, then Placerville where they lived for 14 years before moving to the Silicon Valley. “We just celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary. Our only child is our 30-year-old daughter. She attended CCS during her elementary years here in the South Bay. She recently completed her Masters in Investor Relations at the University of San Francisco and is currently working in San Francisco's financial district.

Debbie has a personal understanding for the challenges and sorrows that often come with starting a family, especially when things don’t go as planned. “We were unable to have more children and that was hard to accept. But God had a plan. For 15 years, I was employed by CCS, working in the Extended Care Program for three years, and in the preschool as a teacher for one year, then director for 12 years. There were many, many children in my life over the years. What a blessing! Currently, I serve on the CCS School Board.”

While working at Campbell Christian School and taking care of her family, Debbie completed her Associates in Early Childhood Education at West Valley College. “I had begun on the journey of early childhood education when my daughter was very young. I felt I needed more information to raise her, and went back to college in Placerville when she was six years old and at school. I finally received my degree after about ten years of study.”

What was the best thing about being a stay-at-home mom? And being a working mom?
The first 13 years of our daughter's life, I was able to be a stay-at-home mom. I'm very grateful for that time because I was able to focus on her a little more without the added stress of an outside job. But when I went to work, it helped her become a little more responsible and I became a little more organized. The timing may have been good.

What did you do before you started working for CCS?
Prior to working in the field of child development, I had worked as a secretary, both in my home state of New Jersey as well as California, which included working for the California State Legislature for eight years.

How do you spend your days?
I've been retired for over five years. Since we retired, my husband and I have flown to France, Italy, Australia, and crossed the United States and Canada by train. It's important to remain as active as possible, so helping out at one of the local elementary schools, reading to the kindergartners through fourth graders has been on my list of volunteer activities. Serving as a Sunday Bible class teacher of three year olds and helping as a mentor mom for Mothers of Preschoolers are priorities at this time.

My husband and I stay busy right now caring for his elderly mother who lives nearby. She is 95 now and depends on us, so we see her every other day and make sure she has what she needs. It is very difficult to witness a loved one in decline, but there is a blessing in this, too, something to be learned.

Best bit of parenting advice you ever received?
My mother said to always remember "This too shall pass." She was big on understanding stages of development and she didn't even go to college to study it. She was absolutely right, and it passes too quickly. Just before our daughter was born, a dear friend wrote me a letter and said, "Just love her." I've done just that every day of my life since she was born. So when I was director of the Early Childhood Center at Campbell Christian School I would share these adages with our parents and also tell them, "Enjoy each day with your little ones because they grow up very fast." I will add that praying for them every day is essential!

Playdate! Every Last Wednesday 9:30-11:30am

Get out of the house and hang with other MOPS moms and their kids at our NEW Monthly Playdate! The last Wedneday of the month.

While the weather is cool and unpredictable, we'll meet indoors where there will be toys and games for the kids and plenty of room to run around. When things warm up we'll meet at a local park.

Join us on Wednesday, February 23 from 9:30-11:30am in the Oak Room on the campus of the Campbell Church.

Designer Denim at Big Discounts!

Help MOPS mom Morgan kick-off her discount designer denim business. Bring your friends, have some fun, and save!!

Vault Denim provides designer denim at up to 50% off retail price - no seconds or knock-offs. We have upscale, name brands normally sold in high-end stores, as well as bling jeans with fun, funky finishes. You'll love the look and the savings!

When: March 6th
Time: 6pm
Where: Morgan's house
For address and directions, RSVP by March 1st to campbellmops@gmail.com.

Unfinished Objects: February 24!

Do you have any UFOs in your house?

You know, Unfinished Objects!

Crafts, crocheting, quilting - that scrapbook you started but never finished...

It's more fun when you're not alone!

Bring your UFO and join other (crafty) gals the last Thursday of the month from 6:30-10pm. Make new friends and make progress on your UFO!

But what if I'm not crafty?

Come anyway! Work on your baby book, organize your photos, write a letter to a friend! Bring a project you've been wanting to work on, but haven't had time to finish with the kids around. Come see what we're working on and get inspired!

Next meeting is Thursday, February 24 in the Oak Room of the Campbell Church. Email campbellMOPS@gmail.com for more information!

Parents' Time Out--Free Childcare Feb. 25!

Parents' Time Out is back! Moms and dads who are with their kids all day need an occasional “time out” to recharge. Time to be alone, run errands, or meet a friend without the kids! That's why the Campbell Church is offering FREE childcare on the last Friday of the month!

Time Out for Parents is fun, free childcare for infants through age 5, from 8:30am to 12 noon.

Drop off your kids between 8:30 and 9:30am on Friday, February 25.

Pick up anytime before noon.

Call 378-4900, x264 by February 22 to RSVP!

Please leave a message with your child(ren)’s name(s), age(s) and your contact information. This is a great opportunity for you and a friend to drop your children off together and go get a coffee and catch up!

Space is limited, so sign up ASAP!

Defiance in Children: Wednesday MOPS Feb. 9!

Handling defiance in children: if it hasn't happened to us already, it is likely to happen to all of us in the future on this parenting journey. Join us for a hot breakfast, a fun Valentine's Day craft project (all supplies will be provided), and get some great parenting encouragement and advice with a video by husband-and-wife family therapists Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott. Free childcare provided. 9:30-11:30am! Call (408) 378-4900 or e-mail campbellmops@gmail.com with any questions or to register your child(ren) for childcare!

Kathy Hall speaks Feb. 12!

Hey Saturday moms! At next month's meeting on Feb. 12, Kathy Hall will be speaking from a true mother's perspective: "I’ve Got Two Arms – Not Twelve!"

It is a huge issue to accept our limits as mothers; we try to do it all! To accept that we were made with limits, that they are to be respected, and that God views us as beautiful and perfect - without reference to our productivity.

“When my first baby was born, I literally struggled to move at her pace, to match those little steps instead of remaining in high gear and striding quickly to where I needed to be next. The struggle often brought me to tears! So often I wanted to accomplish things but found myself resenting my little ones as a handicap rather than the greatest gift God ever entrusted me with.”

Kathy Hall is mom to three beautiful, accomplished adult daughters – Bethany, Grace and Trisha (our wonderful childcare coordinator!) and is excited about becoming a grandparent in April.

Please join us for this wonderful meeting as this gracious and honest mom tells the truth about motherhood and shares her experiences! As always, there will be a yummy breakfast and free childcare available! Call (408) 378-4900 or e-mail campbellmops@gmail.com with any questions or to register your child(ren) for childcare!

The Reason for MOPS: No Mom is Alone

Recently, we became aware that one of our own MOPS moms was going through some extreme difficulties. Her husband was diagnosed with cancer, they have four kids at home, and she is the sole supporter of her family but unable to find a full-time job.

Many of our MOPS moms from both groups rallied together to provide her with much-needed supplies - from laundry detergent to shampoo, clothes for the kids, money for laundry and bills, even birthday gifts for her 11 year old son - you came together to support another mom.

Because in MOPS, you were not meant to walk this journey alone! EVERY mom needs the love and support of friends.

Here is a note from the mom that we helped:

This is just a little note to express my biggest thanks to everyone. You all have helped me in so many ways. I know my family and I have a long road ahead but it is so nice to know that so many people are praying for my husband and family. I feel so blessed to have so many friends :). For the clothing, gift cards, money and so many prayers and much more...... THANK YOU!!!!!! My family and I appreciate your help and prayers through this difficult time, more than you know.

I don't know what else to say but this is for everyone. God Bless all of you.

Need help around the house? Help someone in need

Do you need a mother's helper? A little extra help with laundry or other chores?

We have a MOPS mom whose husband is struggling with cancer, and who is looking for extra work during the day to help support her family of six. If you need help around the house, in-home childcare, or housekeeping, please email campbellmops@gmail.com for further information!

21 Projects you can do for anyone in your life!

This month's MOPS speaker Kathi Lipp helped us elevate our thinking about the relationships in our lives as a project: what can we proactively do to help make sure this relationship doesn't go stale? While she spoke primarily about her book The Husband Project, Kathi also spoke about and has done a lot of thinking about how to apply the "project" mentality to other relationships in our lives: how can we bless our relationships with our children, with our friends, with our bosses, with our parents or grandparents?

We want to thank Kathi for providing us with these 21 Projects that you can do for anyone in your life! Maybe one of these ideas is just the thing you needed to help show a special person in your life that you love them and are thinking of them!

• Do a Drive-By—Leave a note under their windshield wiper with a bit of encouragement or a Bible verse that would be meaningful. Bonus—how happy will they be when they realize it is not a parking ticket?!? (If your Project isn’t a licensed driver, put the note in their backpack or room.)

• Tell your Project what first made you want to hang out with them: was it their sense of humor, the way they cared for their little sister, the grace they showed others at work? Let them know how much that meant to you then, and now.

• Look in magazines or on the web for an article that your Project would be interested in. Clip it out or e-mail it with a note—”just thought you would find this interesting…”

• Pray for your Project – find out their schedule and challenges for the day and put a post-it note wherever you’ll best be reminded to pray throughout the day.

• Find a picture of the two of you that you really love. You can either give or e-mail a copy to your Project and let them know how happy the picture makes you feel.

• Brag on your Project. Make sure someone else in your Project’s life knows how special they are to you. Brag to their boss, their mom, their kids or their friends.

• Make sure that your Project’s birthday is on every calendar at your home or office. This year, you will remember to send a card or gift in time!

• Buy a bag of your Project’s favorite bite-sized candies. Leave the treats in surprising places (coat pockets, desk drawers).

• Make a list of 10 reason you love your Project. Leave it somewhere that they will find it.

• Do a chore that your Project hates. It could be anything from putting gas in their car to emptying their waste basket if you work together.

• Send an e-mail encouraging them in some way today.

• Let your Project know what you admire about them physically. Is it their hair color, their eyes, or even the way they dress.

• Buy a gift card for your Project. It can be as simple as $5 for coffee. Write a little note along with it to let them know why they deserve a break today.

• Post-it. Leave a little note somewhere that they will find it. Keep it brief (five words or less) to give them a short-and-sweet boost.

• What is one of your Project’s favorite foods. Today is the day to make that happen. Whether you have to make it, bake it, or take it (out) make sure they get some today.

• Pray for your Project’s other relationships. Is there one that is strained or distant? Pray silently and often throughout the day for that person.

• Be a resource. Find or purchase a resource for your Project. If they are into knitting, maybe it is a new magazine or a small gift card to a local shop.

• The gift of time. Would your Project like to take a walk with you, but you are always too tired or too busy? Today is the day to strap on those walking shoes—or go for a Starbucks run, or go see that chick flick she has been dying to see.

• How creative can you be for five bucks? It’s time to find out because that is all you have to bless your Project today. Maybe it is buying a cute plate at the dollar store and topping it with homemade brownies. Or five dollars of grocery store flowers that you turn into a charming small bouquet (arranged in a shabby chic tea cup).

• Time to take something off your Project’s to do list. Take their dry cleaning in or pack their lunch for the next day.

• OK—an e-card may not be the most thoughtful thing to send someone on a special day (just ask any wife who has received one on a 10th anniversary…) but they are perfectly acceptable for a not-so-important-day. You can find some fun cards at Hallmark.com

• Pray once again—this time for your relationship. Spend one minute thanking God for all He is teaching you though your Project.

Have any other ideas? Please share them with us on our facebook page or in the Comments section below!

Post-It Encouragements

Still have your Post-It notes from this month's meeting with Kathi Lipp? Here are 21 Post-It-sized encouragements that Kathi has provided to us to help get you thinking about how to use a Post-It to encourage your spouse. Does another special person in your life need encouragement instead? Read over her suggestions below and use your creativity to tweak them to apply instead to your child, your parent, or a good friend who could use some encouragement!

• Praying for you today.
• Those jeans are really working for you…
• I love you.
• You are the best dad!
• You’re the kind of husband that makes the other wives jealous.
• You rock my world!
• Can’t wait to see you tonight – meet me upstairs…
• Thanks for working hard to provide for us. I appreciate all that you do.
• You make me feel beautiful.
• I thank God for you everyday.
• How did I get so lucky, being married to a guy like you?
• You’re great!
• You make everyday more fun.
• Have a great day.
• You’re hot!
• I feel so safe with you.
• Smart and good looking – I’ve got the whole package in you!
• You can be very distracting, you know…
• Our kids are so blessed to have a dad like you.
• That smile I wear – it is all because of you.
• God have blessed me in big ways by letting me be your wife.

Have even more ideas that aren't listed here? We'd love to hear them! Drop a note on our Facebook page or leave 'em in the comments!

Unfinished Objects: January 27!

Do you have any UFOs in your house?

You know, Unfinished Objects!
Crafts, crocheting, quilting - that scrapbook you started but never finished...

It's more fun when you're not alone!
Bring your UFO and join other (crafty) gals the last Thursday of the month from 6:30-10pm. Make new friends and make progress on your UFO!

But what if I'm not crafty?
Come anyway! Work on your baby book, organize your photos, write a letter to a friend! Bring a project you've been wanting to work on, but haven't had time to finish with the kids around. Come see what we're working on and get inspired!

Next meeting is Thursday, January 27 in the Oak Room of the Campbell Church. Email campbellMOPS@gmail.com for more information!

Saturday MOPS: Who is Kathi Lipp?

We are so pleased to have Kathi Lipp with us this coming Saturday morning, January 8! We invite ALL MOPS moms (whether you normally attend on Saturday or Wednesday) to join us for this great session starting at 9:30am. As always, free childcare is provided.

Kathi Lipp helps women renovate their life with projects for the soul. She is a national speaker and author who inspires thousands each year to take beneficial action steps in their personal, marital, and spiritual lives. Her wit and wisdom will give you new ways to:

•Avoid settling for less than God’s loving plan for your life.
•Develop new levels of warmth and tenderness with your spouse.
•Return fun and flirting to your marriage.
•Boost your confidence to follow God-given dreams and goals.
•Create an environment of encouragement in your friendships

Kathi is the author of The Husband Project: 21 Days to Loving Your Man on Purpose and with a Plan and The Marriage Project: 21 Days to Reigniting Your Relationship. In addition, her articles have appeared in Today’s Christian Woman, Bay Area Parent, Focus on the Family, Discipleship Journal, and Christian Parenting Today.