Man Up with Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Our little one just turned two and everyone has been warning us that we are in for trouble.   We already have to hide all of the pens in the house because our living room arm chair was the first casualty.  Since the vandalism occurred, we made sure to bring only washable crayons, colored pencils and finger paints into the house.  The antidote is the most important thing to have, Mr. Clean Magic Erasers – Extra Power.  You can find them in most local discount stores and definitely in your large general retailers.  The white sponge-like piece of foam is water activated.  Saturate the foam with cold water and lightly scrub the affected area.  As the stains disappear the eraser disintegrates.  Despite all forms of the NO!, we have already scrubbed our fair share of crayon masterpieces from the walls.  Mr. Clean Magic Eraser stays stocked in the house.  In fact it should be the goody bag gift for parents at every first birthday party.  “It’s toddler time,” as our friend Nina warned months ago, “you better man up!”

I am listening for YOU!

Happy New Year, Creating Legacies families.  I hope that 2014 is off to a spectacular start.  I have used this first week to be grateful for the blessings of last year and thoughtful about what I am being called to do in 2014.  In the past year discussions with my husband and my friends have challenged me to stop procrastinating and start writing about my unique perspective and life experiences.  I find myself yearning to read books about topics and titles that don’t seem to exist.  A few days ago, I came across this Toni Morrison quote, “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.”  Just when I thought that I had some confirmation for what I am to do in 2014, my aunt gave me a Bible study to read that was entitled, “Commanded to Write.”  From my lips to God’s ears, the message is crystal clear!  I am sharing this with you, because I believe that I am not the only one to be held accountable to this conviction.  All of us have a story to share.  It is through our stories that our legacy is passed down for generations.  While historically, oral tradition is valuable and beautiful, we now have the means and ability to express ourselves indelibly.  Whether it is journaling for self reflection, a letter or email to a friend, a poem or song for inspiration, Face Book status updates and tweets or a novel for the NY Times Best Seller list, share your voice with someone.  It’s one of the most comforting things in life to hear a familiar voice.  Will you be that person on the other end?