Laveen MOPS

The Adored Wife

2012-02-05T20:36:00.000-08:00

Thanks so much to our great speakers Rebeccah Bethel and Jennifer Castro. Our speakers enlightened us with information from their 4Him Workshop "The Adored Wife" on how we as wives "Wound Our Husbands." Rebeccah and Jennifer shared important and valuable scripture that we can review and apply to our relationships with our spouses.

***Proverbs 16:24 "Kind words are like honey-sweet to the soul and healthy for the body."

Thank you to the Brilliant table for hosting a delicious breakfast!

We hope to see many of you at our upcoming MOPS Spa Day on Feb 16th! We will be having a mommy and kids' pajama contest!

The Marquis table will be hosting on Feb 16th

Upcoming events:
Monday, Feb 6: Family Fun Safety Night @ Scrooptacular 2:30p-6pm
Sunday, Feb 12: Laveen BBQ @ Betty Fairfax

Have a blessed week!

The Basics of Cake Decorating...

2012-01-22T17:42:00.000-08:00

It was so great to see everyone after the holidays!

What a fun meeting we had this past Thursday! Moms were treated to a special demonstration of cake decorating. Moms were given the opportunity to try out their newly learned skills on their own cupcake! We walked away with some new and helpful ideas on how to become improved cake decorators. Thanks so much Jill for the great demonstration!

Moms were given the opportunity to meditate and discuss Matthew 7: 24-27.

Thanks Radiant table for hosting a delicious breakfast!

If you have any community resources to share, please let Monica know. We are putting together a MOPS Resource Directory.
Next MOPS meeting is on Feb 2nd. Guest speakers Jennifer Castro and Rebeccah Bethel will be sharing ways on how to avoid Wounding our Husbands.

MOPS Christmas Celebration

2011-12-16T15:16:00.000-08:00

What a great Christmas celebration we had! Christmas Caroling, fun festive crafts and a Cookie Exchange! Thanks so much to everyone who made this meeting such a wonderful and memorable one! All the moms did a great job signing!

Thanks to all the moms who participated in our 'Ugly Sweater' contest! Many of the sweaters were too cute to be considered 'ugly'! Congrats to the winner!

Moms had fun coming up with lyrics for our 12 Days of Christmas Song! Such creative moms!

Thanks to MOPPETS for the wonderful Christmas performance! The kids were ADORABLE!

Our next MOPS meeting is on January 19. No meeting on the first Thursday of the month.

Radiant table is hosting at our next meeting.

Thanks to the Heart table for hosting a wonderful breakfast!

We hope you all have a wonderful and blessed Christmas and Happy New Year.

How to be a HELPER....

2011-12-02T14:10:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays. Many of us are preparing for Christmas, putting up the Christmas tree, shopping, and planning family and friend gatherings. We hope you all have a wonderful holiday season!

Thanks to all the moms who attended today's wonderful meeting. What a meeting! We were fortunate enough to have Terry Rosello as our guest speaker. She did a great job explaining the important and valuable role of women as "helpers" to their husbands. She gave us some great examples of scripture as it applies to women and their role as "helpers".

Thanks to the Baguette table for hosting.

Our next bible study meeting is Thursday, Dec. 8 at 9:30am. It's not to late to join us, we are working on week 4.

We are having a Farmer's Market outing scheduled for Dec. 10. If you would like to carpool, meet us at the Laveen Baptist Church parking lot by 8:30am.

Next meeting is our MOPS Christmas party: Dec. 15th: we are having a cookie exchange (see Evite for more info), Ugly sweater contest, also, please dress kids in red or green for their "performance".

We hope you have a blessed week!

Operation Christmas Child

2011-11-18T14:16:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of the moms who helped in assembling Operation Christmas Child (OCC) boxes. You all did a great job, and we were able to donate many boxes to OCC.

Moms were given the opportunity to discuss and reflect on the scripture John 6:1-14.

Moms had a great time playing our 'What's Cooking' game. Thanks Becky for the recipe!

Thanks to the Trillion table for hosting a delicious breakfast! There was so much food! You all did a great job!

Upcoming events:

APS Electric Light Parade on Dec. 3 at 7pm along Central Ave., from Montebello to Camelback, east on Camelback to 7th Street, south Indian School. for more info 602 534-FEST.
Trip to Farmer's Market Downtown Phoenix 9am on Dec. 10
Guest speaker Terry Rossello (Marriage Counselor)

Who is in your Circle of Relationships?

2011-11-03T21:18:00.000-07:00

Our cooler weather has arrived and the holidays have officially begun!   What a relief to finally have such wonderful cooler weather! Time to spend as much time as we can outdoors.

At today's meeting moms watched a video on "Circle of Relationships".   The video emphasized the importance of a mother's support network.   A mother who feels supported and with strong relationships is a "better mother" for her children.   A mother has a several layers in her circle of relationships, ranging from her inner circle of closest friends and family, to her outer circle of physicans, and teachers.

Thanks so much to the Emerald table for hosting today's delicious breakfast!

We hope you can join us this Friday, Nov. 4 for our 'Frugal Movie Night' at Monica's home. Please see Evite for more information.

Laveen Baptist Church will be a drop off site for Operation Christmas Child (OCC). Please sign up to help us out during the week of Nov. 14-Nov. 21.  Thanks!

At our next MOPS meeting on Nov. 17, we will be hosting a packing party for Operation Christmas Child.   Hope to see you then!

How to be a Smart Shopper!

2011-10-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

Our guest speaker Margaret Kirkland showed us some savvy ways to save money while shopping! She gave us some great tips on what websites to use and how to make the most out of using coupons. Margaret uses her talents as a coupon expert by donating many of the items she purchases to those in need.

Moms were given the opportunity to discuss and reflect on Matthew 6: 31-34 encouraging us mothers to trust in the Lord who will provide what we need.

Thanks to our Princess table for hosting.

Our MOPS garage sale will take place on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 6:30-11:30am.
Our Walking Club will be walking this Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 9am at Cesar Chavez Park all are welcome!
Laveen Baptist Church is hosting a Harvest Carnival on Oct. 31 from 6-9pm, all are welcome!
Our next meeting will be on November 3rd. The Emerald table will be hosting.
Frugal Friday Movie will be on Friday, November 4. We will be watching "The Proposal".

Have a blessed week!

Stress discussion and Accessory Swap

2011-10-06T21:19:00.000-07:00

Moms were treated to a yummy breakfast by the Marquis table! Thanks for the delicious food ladies!

Moms participated in an interactive Bible study regarding 'stress'.   We were given the opportunity to discuss how stress impacts our lives as mothers and how we respond to that stress.   Each group was given a chance to reflect on Mark 4:38. Thanks discussion group leaders for leading a great discussion.

Our Accessory swap was lots of fun and a huge success! Moms were asked to bring in some of their gently used accessories and 'swap' them for some different ones.   Many of us walked away with some different accessories to add to our wardrobe!

Our walking club will begin its morning walks on Wednesday, October 12 at 8am. Meeting location will be at Cesar Chavez Park by the playground. We hope many of you can join us!

Our next meeting will take place on October 20th, we will have a speaker who will talk about Smart Shopping.   The Princess table will be hosting this meeting.

We hope we can count on you to support our upcoming Garage Sale on October 22nd. The garage sale will be part of Dobbins Point Community wide sale. We are in need of donations. Please contact us if you have items to donate! We would really appreciate it!

We are in the process of planning a 'Frugal Friday Movie Night' stay tuned! More info to come!

See you soon!

Women of Wisdom Panel

2011-09-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much to our wonderful WOW (Women of Wisdom) Panel who shared some very important advice and experiences with our moms. Our moms presented a series of questions relating to discipline, husband/marriage, values/teaching and some general parenting advice. You helped many of us reflect about how we could implement some of your ideas.

Some of the books that were referenced during our discussion by one of our Mentor Moms are:
1) Creative Correction: Extraordinary Ideas for Everyday Discipline by Lisa Welchel
2) Dare to Discipline by Dr. James Dobson
3) Shepherding a Child's Heart by Tedd Tripp

Thank you to the Brilliant table for hosting our yummy breakfast!

Our bible study is beginning this Thursday, September 22 at 9:30am. We will be using Beth Moore's Believing God study guide! We hope to see you there! Childcare is being provided.

We hope to see many of you for our play date at Chuck E Cheeses (Ahwatukee) on September 29 at 10 am.

The Marquise table will host at our next meeting on October 6!
We hope you can join us for our October 6 meeting during which we will be hosting an "Accessory Swap". If you are tired of using your same accessories over and over, here's your chance to get some different ones. Bring in the items you would like to swap and choose some different ones!

See you soon!

Our first MOPS meeting of the 2011-2012 year

2011-09-01T17:08:00.000-07:00

What a great meeting we had today! We saw lots of familiar faces and some new moms that joined us for the first time! It was a busy morning as moms dropped their kids off in MOPPETS and then enjoyed a delicious breakfast hosted by the Steering Team.

Our theme for this year MomSense: Bold, Loving, Sensible: will equip moms to embrace their mothering instincts and develop their own parenting style...

Moms got a chance to meet the new Steering Team, Mentor Moms and Discussion Group Leaders. Moms enjoyed their time getting to know each other. Each table got a chance to compete in "Smarter than a Preschooler", congrats to the winning table!

Moms were able to sign up for our upcoming bible study, which will begin on September 22 from 9:30am-11:30am. We hope to see many of you there! We will be using Beth Moore's "Believing God" workbook.

See you all on the 15th! The Brilliant table will be hosting at our next meeting!

What's happening with MOPS

2011-08-07T21:48:00.000-07:00

Hope you are all doing well. Many of you with school aged-kids are getting ready for your kids' first day of school! We hope this is a smooth process for all of you!

Lots of thanks for all those moms who showed up to help pack lunches for the Phoenix Rescue Mission. We were able to pack 107 lunches! This event was a success because of your help!

MOPS will begin on Thursday, September 1st. We are excited for the new year to begin and to see many of the returning and new moms! We hope you will decide to join us this year!

We hope many of you can join us for our MOPS Kick Off and Fundraiser Night on Tuesday, August 16th from 4-7pm. Bring the family out to Scooptacular (ice-cream shop on the corner of 51st Ave. and Baseline Rd., next to Starbucks). Please invite family and friends. We will have information about MOPS for any new moms and you'll have a chance to pre-register while the kids are happy eating ice-cream!

We look forward to seeing many of you soon!

Summer Fun at Trailside Park splash pad

2011-07-05T14:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who showed up for a fun morning in the sun! It was a warm morning, but the kids didn't seem to mind! They all had a great time playing and getting wet! Thanks Jill for providing some much needed shade for us! It was nice to get out and socialize with other moms!

We hope you can join us for our next splash pad playdate at Trailside park on Friday, August 5th at 9am!
We hope you are all having a great summer spending time with your kiddos!

Summer Fun!

2011-06-10T21:05:00.000-07:00

Summer is here, and our WARM weather has arrived! Our kids are out of school, and many of us are starting our summer family vacations.

Most of us are trying to stay cool while having fun at our local splash pads and museums.
Since our MOPS meetings are not in session right now and won't begin again until September....we hope you take the opportunity to set up some play dates with some of the friends you met at MOPS.

We hope to see many of you at our upcoming play dates at Trailside Park splash pad. We'll be there at 9am on the first Friday in July and August. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Be safe and stay cool!

Love Languages and Homeless Outreach

2011-04-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

Time keeps flying by! Wow only 1 more meeting before summer!

Thanks to Rose and Magnolia for supplying us with plenty of yummy treats to get ready for swimsuit season....ha, ha! I hope we're all making strides in loving our children in all 5 of the love languages and becoming more aware of the faces of the homeless around us.

I had the privelege of taking our lunches (over 100 sack lunches) down to the Phoenix Rescue Mission. I have to admit I had never been there and I got lost.....but what sweet surprise God placed before me. I got off of the freeway and there was a homeless guy with a sign sitting on a crate. I sometimes smile and look away, but this time I had over 100 lunches in my car. I thought to myself, "Why not give this guy one?" So I rolled down my window and held a lunch out. He ran over and said, "Thank you, Thank you!". Then he scurried over to a private area on the sidewalk of the overpass and dug through the bag with delight. As I turned the corner he looked up and gave me a big wave and a smile. I had tears in my eyes as I drove away. What a sweet glimpse into the eyes of the Lord just as Matthew 25 states.

Verse 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’

37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

Hope you all had a blessed Easter. I look forward to seeing what each of your tables put together for our final Tea and Testimony meeting on May 5th. Lilac will be hosting and it'll be AWESOME! See you there!

MOPS Swap March 17th

2011-04-04T19:23:00.000-07:00

The MOPS Swap was a success. It was so much fun finding treasures that many of us are looking forward to next year's treasure hunt already!

Our next meeting is this Thursday, April 7th at 9:30am. This week is a presentation on Love Languages of Children. Great topic. With only 3 meetings left, this is not one to miss! ... and neither are any of the other ones!

The Rose table is hosting. Contact your table leader Shannon at shannon@8beans.com with any questions.

Spa Day March 3rd 2011

2011-03-09T20:00:00.000-08:00

How wonderful it is to be a woman and to fully appreciate pampering! Thank you so much to all of the women involved in bringing us such a wonderful event. Spa day was an amazing success.

News and Upcoming Events....

MOPS Bible Study this Thursday 9:30-11:00am. Download the study on Heart and Attitude if you forgot to pick it up.

Check out the Classes offered at the Eastlake Park Community Center for Toddlers and Pre-Schoolers. Classes like ballet, messy art, and parent/tot musichttp://phoenix.gov/PARKS/eastlak.html

The American Cancer Society is holding a fundraiser in Laveen this year at Betty Fairfax High School on April 16th and 17th. To join a team or start your own go to http://www.relayforlife.org/LaveenAZ

Anani is setting up a field trip to Maya's Farm at The Farm at South Mountain to tour the farm/chickens area and learn about gardening and so on. There is a set fee for any group, so the more families that go, the cheaper it will be. She is looking at the morning of Monday, April 18th. Anyone interested can contact her at ananimv@yahoo.com

The MOPS SWAP is set for March 17th-St. Patty's Day. Information will be e-mailed regarding guidelines to everyone who has signed up so if you forgot please e-mail Jill Fenner. Remember we will not take items on Thursday morning, they must be brought Wednesday evening. If you have no idea what the MOP SWAP is then scroll down to "MOPS SWAP" and check it out.

Coming Up In March

2011-02-18T12:25:00.000-08:00

March 3rd -Spa Day - Join us for a morning of girlie pampering. You'll enjoy a short sampling of spa-like things such as Satin Hands Treatment along with a Parafin Dip, a Facial, Do-It-Yourself (or Do-It-For-Your-Neighbor) Nail Painting, and of course the always famous chocolate fountain. You'll have a chance to win some great prizes like a spa pedicure, body lotions, a Scooptacular gift card, and a MOPS t-shirt. E-mail laveenmops@yahoo.com with any questions. (Lily is hosting: Table Leader Kari karifumusa@cox.net)

March 17th - MOPS Meeting and MOP SWAP - This is a really great garage sale without actually exchanging any money. You bring your stuff and basically trade it for other people's stuff (kid's items, adult clothing, household items, whatever-the only stipulation is that it must be in good repair-no holes, dirt, etc.) You get 1 ticket for each item you bring and each item you'd like will cost you 1 ticket. All items must be brought and set up on Wednesday the 16th from 8-9pm and the swapping doors will open at 9:45 am. E-mail laveenmops@yahoo.com if you have any questions. (Sweet Pea is hosting: Table Leader Jessica jessicasmithdesigns@yahoo.com)

Marriage and Intimacy Feb 3rd

2011-02-12T19:37:00.000-08:00

What a Morning of Glorious food from the Morning Glory table this past meeting. Thank you ladies for all of your efforts in serving us.

Next MOPS Meeting: Feb 17th on forgiveness. You won't want to miss this speaker. The Daisy table is hosting so contact Rachel (daisy's table leader at arizonarachel@hotmail.com if you have any questions.

A Day at MOPS 1/20

2011-01-26T20:53:00.000-08:00

What an array by the Lilac table! Whoa. That was amazing. Thank you so much ladies for your wonderful display.

Bible Study this Thursday (and every 2nd and 4th Thurs. through April) at 9:30am at the church. Children can be dropped off at the playground (but please keep infants with you). Study is on beauty.

Next Meeting is on Feb 3rd. Jennifer Miller from Home Life Revolution will be our speaker on Marriage/Intimacy. Check our her website at homeliferevolution.com Morning Glory is hosting-Melissa McAdams is the table leader melissamcadams6504@yahoo.com

Christmas Concert

2011-01-05T12:06:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful array of desserts and coffee for the Christmas Concert. It was the perfect compliment to a beautiful Christmas program. Thank you to all of the Steering Team and ladies who contributed.

We have some great topics ahead for MOPS in the upcoming year. (say did anyone get you with the "See you next year" line at the end of last year? - That gets me every time!)

Here is what you can expect to hear about in 2011 at MOPS....
Revolutionary Marriage, The 5 Love Languages of Children, Spa Day, Intentional Parenting, and even Community Outreach.

Looking forward to seeing you Thursday, January 20th for our next MOPS meeting.

In-Law Issues 12/2

2010-12-08T23:15:00.000-08:00

Magnolia table, we thank you for the wonderful arrangement of food that made us think of how we could be serving our In-Laws and the other people in our lives even better. Terr;y Rosello really hit home on that as well. She gave a great perspective from her own experience as mother in-law and as wife. What a great insight, what a great meeting!

Our next meeting on December 16th, is a Christmas Concert held in the main church building. (where MOPPETS are dropped off) The concert will start promptly at 9:45. Childcare is provided for the first half and then the kids will be performing a couple of songs and join us for the remainder of the concert.

You can keep your kids with you the whole time, just the second half or not at all. There will be a Veggie Tale Christmas Movie for the children and the playground will be available (with Childcare workers) if needed. Be sure to bundle up the kids for the playground. The steering team will provide some Christmas snacks, but feel free to include your own festive feature.

We are looking forward to seeing you there with your cameras in hand cause you have cute kids that want to sing some songs for you!

Operation Christmas Child 11/18

2010-11-23T21:55:00.000-08:00

The newest MOPS Mom Members, the Lily Table really 'pampered' us with their 'Chef-like' abilities. Thank you so much for sharing the gift of your food offering!

Thank you to the VERY special ladies (steering team moms, mentor moms, and even some veteran MOPS moms - you all know who you are) that have stepped in to help when an extra hand is needed for our MOPPETS. We thank you for your time, effort, and most of all the beautiful gift you offer by giving up your MOPS time for the sake of other moms.

Antiquities pictures will be in on Tuesday, Nov. 30th. Come to the nursery to view them and pick up your 10x13. What a great gift for the In-Laws.. eh? E-mail Jill with questions jillinaz@cox.net

Our next meeting on December 2nd, Terry Rosello will present us with a talk on In-Law Issues. (Sounds like a gifted speaker)

Presently, Magnolia is up for hosting the December 2nd meeting Contact Nicole at nicole.cameron14@yahoo.com with questions.

The presence of our MOPPET workers, allows us to enjoy some great experiences together during our MOPS meetings, so please remember to sign the cards and bring a small donation for Christmas Thank-Yous for our MOPPET workers at on December 2nd.

Well, that about wraps it up... We hope you are planning on being present December 2nd!

Mommy Personalities 11/04

2010-11-10T14:11:00.000-08:00

They say you can tell a lot about a person by what they eat. I don't know who they are, but I know which table we can surely call sweet for this past meetings food!.... Sweet Pea table, you did a great job bringing some sweet treats our way. Thank you for hosting.

Thank you Steering Team for the confection of the Mommy Personality MOPS meeting this past Thursday. It was such a treat to have Casey outline our Personalities Styles. Here is the link to investigate further. http://www.motherstyles.com/quiz.asp and http://quizzes.familyeducation.com/motherstyles

There is a theme in this post. How sweet it is to have you in our lives, Andrews family. Can you believe we raised over $1,000.00 for the Andrews family through the Antiquities fundraiser? Thank you to all of the families who supported this effort. Sweet Dreams are made of these.... kind of MOPS moms!

The Portraits of our little sugar dumplings will be back for viewing on Tuesday, Nov. 30th in the church nursery.

On with the sweets... if you are trying to get rid of any Halloween candy, you can bring the hard candies to our next meeting 11/18 for Operation Christmas Child Packing Party.

The Lily table is hosting on 11/18. Contact table leader Kari at karifumusa@cox.net with hosting questions.

MOPS PLAYDATEish - If you want to have a playdate with a MOPS friend and your little sweetie pies (BYOE*) while helping out, Our MOPS Operation Christmas Child Relay center will be open the week of 11/15; Mon-Sat 9am-1pm and Sun 12:30-4:30 and we would be pleased to have you there to guide "box dropper offers" from the community. Contact your table leader or Johanna at jpasiakos1@yahoo.com for relay center schedule and questions.

*BYOE - Bring Your Own Entertainment for your kiddos as there is NO childcare provided. Feel free to bring entertainment such as a travel DVD player, or crayons w/ coloring books etc.
Ok sweetcheeks, that about wraps it up. We are looking forward to the next time we see your sweet face at MOPS!

Parenting Styles 10/21

2010-10-25T15:48:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies!
Great meeting last week on Parenting Styles. Hopefully with the information shared we will find ourselves empowered to help our children make good choices for the greater glory of God. Not to mention the payoffs seem to show up rather quickly and last a lifetime!

Speaking of God's glory, thanks to Him and the Rose table for the wonderful food. Great job ladies.

A few upcoming events we would love for you to be a part of....

-All Antiquities $ must be turned in to Jill by October 29th. If you are interested in working a 3 hour shift On Nov. 5th or 6th please contact Jill at jillinaz@cox.net

-Costume Parade-Join us in spreading a little joy as we parade our little ones around at Jesse Owens nursing home on Friday, October 29th at 10am. Contact Johanna for more information at jpasiakos1@yahoo.com

-Harvest Carnival @Laveen Baptist: Sunday October 31st 5-9pm; Free Candy, Booths, Dunktank, Bouncehouse, Live Music, Games, Prizes, Cakewalk, and fun for kids of all ages!!

-Women's Brunch Nov. 6th 9-11am; RSVP to Casey at sunshineconsulting@cox.net by Nov. 3rd

Our next meeting is November 4th and our Host Table is Sweet Pea. Please contact Jessica at jessicasmithdesigns@yahoo.com with any questions.

The Topic for our next meeting is Mommy Personalities (Speaker: Casey Peterson)
We are looking forward to seeing you then!

Friendship

2010-10-17T23:22:00.000-07:00

What a fun meeting! I had such a great time talking to so many of you....for the prescribed 2 minutes in speed friendship. I hope you all enjoyed it too. Have you had some stimulating conversation at the dinner table using your conversation starters? I think my favorite question was "If you had a super power what would it be?" I've heard several tables have gotten together for play dates....hope you are all meeting new friends and helping be sure that no one has to mother alone!

Here are some of the announcements and events that are coming up:
1. Costume Parade-Join us in spreading a little joy as we parade our little ones around at Jesse Owens nursing home on Friday, October 29th at 10am. Contact Johanna for more information at jpasiakos1@yahoo.com
2. Antiquities Portrait Fundraiser for Micah Andrews-Money and sign ups are due by the next meeting (Oct 21st). We must have 60 coupons sold to make it a go, so tell a friend and bring everything to the meeting to turn in.
3. Women's Fall Brunch-Come enjoy a FREE breakfast while connecting with other women (of all ages) on Saturday, November 6th from 9-11am in the MOPS room. Please RSVP by November 3rd to Casey at sunshineconsulting@cox.net
4. Learn a Foreign Language on-line with Rosetta Stone for under $200. Attend an informational meeting at Vista Del Sur on Oct. 19th or e-mail Casey for more information (sunshineconsulting @cox.net).

Hope to see you at the next meeting on October 21st. We'll be hearing from a speaker on different parenting styles and the Rose table will be hosting. Contact your table leader Shannon at shannon@8beans.com if you sit at the Rose table and have any questions.

See you at MOPS!

Men's Panel 9/16

2010-09-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

A special thanks to the men who were on our Men's Panel and gave us some insight into our own husbands. It was a good reminder that we are created differently. I still can't believe guys can sit and think of nothing...really?? Have you prepped your kids that Daddy is coming home and then let them run outside to greet him this week? Have you been showing your husband respect by praising (and not criticizing) him when you're around others? Pretty big challenges....but worth the effort!

Our next meeting is on October 7th and our topic is Friendship. We'll be doing a round of "Speed Friendship" (kind of like speed dating) so don't miss the chance to meet new moms and potential friends! The Daisy table is hosting so contact Rachel (daisy's table leader) at arizonarachel@hotmail.com if you have any questions.

Don't forget to start selling those Antiquities Photo coupons to help raise money for the Andrews family. You can go to http://www.creativetouchgallery.net/mp_includes/body.aspto see examples of the photos. For every coupon sold, families will receive a beautiful 10x13" Antique Color photograph. Photos will be taken at Laveen Baptist Church on November 5th and 6th. Money and contact information is due by October 21st. A member of steering will contact each person the 1st week of November to arrange a time for their photo session and all clothing and props will be provided by Antiquities. Please direct all questions to Jill Fenner at laveenmops@yahoo.com. To see updates on Micah Andrews go to http://www.welovemicah.blogspot.com/

First Meeting: Sept 2nd

2010-09-09T07:38:00.000-07:00

Thank you ladies for being a part of our first meeting of the 2010-2011 MOPS year. Thanks to Kelly and Noelle for The Price Is Right game and the Steering Team for the yummy food.

Our next meeting is September 16th. We will be hearing from a panel of men about their perspective on relationships and parenting. Morning Glory will be hosting the meeting so if you sit at that table please be sure to arrive by 9:15. If you have any questions please email Melissa, your Table Leader, at melissamcadams6504@yahoo.com For everyone else, we'll be ready for you and your little ones at 9:30.

If you are interested in helping out the Steering Team we'd love to talk to you. We are always looking for people to help out with various tasks such as set up, clean up, preparing crafts, helping with outreach projects, etc. Please e-mail us at laveenmops@yahoo.com if you'd like more information.

Have a great week and we'll see you on September 16th.

MOPS 2010-2011 Coming Soon

2010-08-01T22:25:00.000-07:00

We're getting excited........the steering team spent the weekend in Flagstaff planning, playing, training, praying, eating, brainstorming, shopping, and sharing. We're gearing up for an awesome year laughing, sharing, eating, playing, encouraging, and learning with YOU!

So mark your calendars and pack your diaper bags for our first 2010-2011 Laveen MOPS meeting on Thursday, September 2nd from 9:30-11:30 am. We'll be playing a MOPS version of the Price is Right so pay attention to the price of those goldfish crackers and juice boxes.....it just might pay off!

To register on-line go to: http://laveenbaptistchurch.org/templates/System/details.asp?id=25632&PID=803860

Summer Fun!

2010-06-09T11:04:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for something to do to beat this summer heat? Well come join us for some cool times.

Tuesday nights starting June 22nd we'll be meeting for a Summer Bible Study at Dee Dee's house from 7-9pm. Anyone is welcome (as long as she's a mom ;o) so bring a friend and jump in as we look at 8 women from the Bible and how they relate to us today. Check out the Study Questions on the left margin. E-mail Dee Dee at hddlassila@hotmail.com for directions or to get more information.

Friday mornings we're doing our own FREE home Movie Dates . Bring your own snacks and drinks and cozy up on the couch (or the floor) to watch movies like Toy Story, Peter Pan, Cars, and more. E-mail Nicole at nrlane5@yahoo.com to RSVP and to get times and locations.

And back by popular demand....the Trailside Park Summer Playdates. Join us at the playground and splashpad on June 24th and July 15th at 9:30 for a casual time to talk while the kids play. Trailside park is located on Vineyard (between Southern and Baseline) and 71st Ave. in the Trailside Point Community. E-mail Jill at jillinaz@cox.net if you have any questions.

Summer, Summer, Summertime!

2010-05-22T11:35:00.000-07:00

What a tremendous year! I can't believe it's summer again.....hello swim lessons, splash pads, burning car seats, family vacations, and outdoor grilling!
MOPS won't be meeting over the summer, but the steering team will be working on planning a great 2010-2011 year with the theme Momology. We look forward to seeing you back the first Thursday of September at our usual time, 9:30-11:30 (that's right....forget all those rumors about MOPS moving to Tuesdays).
However, if you want to hang out with some other MOPS moms there are few things going on this summer like movie playdates, Bible study, and other events, so check those e-mails and check back here in a couple of weeks. Until then........enjoy the summer, summer, summertime!

Burning Questions 4/15

2010-04-15T16:27:00.000-07:00

Were your Burning Questions answered today? Mine sure were, but that may have to do with the amazing women surrounding me at today's MOPS meeting.

A special Thank You to the Emerald table for a great variety pack of food. That fresh pineapple stirred a discussion on the desire for a shopping trip.

Next meeting..... Thursday, May 6th, and the Mentor Moms are taking care of the entire meeting. We are CRAZY excited because they have been there done that and know what mothers of Preschoolers can appreciate... (maybe even more than all the kids down for a nap and the kitchen floor has already been cleaned, ooh ooh, by your husband, and the right way! Ha!!)

Upcoming Events…
Wednesdays, MOM Time Wednesday at 6:30-7:50 at Casey's home. Childcare is provided at the Church.

Thursday, April 22nd PARK DATE Trailside Point Park 9:30-11:30

Friday, April 30th MOPS Night Out @ Nails Of The World (Nail salon next to 51st Ave Safeway) Please be sure to RSVP via evite. Thanks Jenn Nelson for the 20% off deal!

Summer Movies at the Harkins
There is a group of Moms that have chosen AZ Mills Mall on Tuesdays. It's $7/person 3 and up for all 10 movies. When you buy your tickets at any of the Harkins movie theaters, you will tell them which day you would like. The location of where you buy your tickets is the location you are assigned to for the rest of the movies. A list of movies and theaters can be found http://www.harkinstheatres.com/SummerMovieFun.aspx

Laveen MOMs Club
Please send an email to laveennorth@yahoo.com if you would like more information on the MOMS club in Laveen.

Thanks for a wonderful day at MOPS today!

Styles That Flatter 04-01

2010-04-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

What an insightful meeting we shared on faith sharing, female style and figure with specialist Kerry Damiano. She offered us all a bit more knowledge on our some of our fruit figured bodies. Check out those slide show pictures!

A special Thank You to the Gold table for a "Golden" selection of food. A new mom would surely be sold on MOPS after that display alone!

Next meeting.....
Thursday, April 15th, the Emerald table is in charge of food. Please contact Rachel Roland orKari Fumusa for more details.
Keep in mind a collection will be taken for an End of Year present for our very kind MOPPETs workers.
Want to know what is in store for our next meeting? (in addition to some Christian company conversing over quality cuisine while our curious children are completely occupied?) Well you will simply have to be there to find out!... and we are looking forward to seeing you too!

Steering...
Say, do you know of any mom who you think would be a great fit for Steering? Well, perhaps you should tell her. Sometimes she may simply need hear it from someone else before considering. Steering team offers a rewarding, faith renewing environment where you can foster friendships and grow in personal faith while serving others.

Upcoming Events…
Thursday, April 22nd PARK DATE Trailside Point Park 9:30-11:30
Friday, April 30th MOPS Night Out @ Nails Of The World (Nail salon next to 51st Ave Safeway) Please be sure to RSVP via evite. Price options to be provided at our 4/22 MOPS meeting, or you can simply peak your head in to the Salon. Pedicures start at $15.00! -- Anybody who is anybody (whatever that means) is sure to be there!

MOPS Swap

2010-03-20T21:08:00.000-07:00

The MOPS Swap was a huge success and...with no injuries!

With about 15 MOPS Moms and all of their stuff, we had a full house of items.
The hot items seemed to be two pack and plays, a gorgeous bedding set, child size table and chairs, some classy clothing from our own very stylish moms closets, kids toys, shoes and attire (some with the tags still on!).. that wasn't all of it! This event showed God's providence multiple times as the items that ladies had on their everlasting "things needed list" just seemed to show up ~ for FREE!

Looking forward to our play date this coming Thursday at 9:30am Trailside.

Spa Day - March 04, 2010

2010-03-04T17:22:00.001-08:00

A delightful relaxing meeting was experienced by all today! So sorry to have missed you if you were not able to make it, or rather so sorry for you that you missed out!
From Chocolate Dipped strawberries, to Paraffin Dipped hands... we sure did dip into something wonderful today. Already looking forward to SPA Day next year! Thank you all of the ladies who put so much effort into a banner day!

Speaking of effort, we had some sensational food provided by the Bronze table. The best way to describe such a spread would be a beautiful variety pack of pleasure! MMmmmmmM!

Upcoming Events…

March 18th Laveen MOPS Swap Meeting.
See "Let's SWAP on March 18th" post below for more details.

Park Date Thursday March 25th
Trailside Point Park 9:30-11:30

Looking forward to seeing you all soon!

Let's SWAP on March 18th

2010-02-25T12:25:00.000-08:00

Get ready and save your spot for our first ever MOPS SWAP! What is a MOPS SWAP you ask? Well, it's basically a chance to trade some of your stuff for someone else's stuff. Here's how it will work.

1. Bring your items to Laveen Baptist Church on Wednesday, March 17th between 8:30-9:00pm. You'll set up your items and be given 1 ticket for each item. EVERYTHING is worth 1 ticket whether it's a child's t-shirt, a swing, a woman's coat, or a television. You'll use your tickets to "purchase" other people's items the next day.

2. The swap will run from 9:30-11:00 on Thursday, the 18th. So bring your tickets and exchange them for other people's cool stuff. We will not have childcare, but the playground will be open.

3. If you wish to take any of your non-swapped items home come collect them at 11am otherwise we will bag them up and donate them to a local charity.

So if you've got things to swap (and really who doesn't?), sign up by e-mailing us at laveenmops@yahoo.com or contacting Nicole Lane (see your directory). We need to have at least 10 moms signed up by March 5th to go forward with the SWAP so don't delay!

Coffee Talk

2010-02-19T12:32:00.000-08:00

Our February 18th MOPS meeting got off to a delicious start thanks to the awesome breakfast provided by the Sapphire table! Women were literally seen fighting over the last few sticky buns....(That Gold table needs some help). The wonderful MOPS mommies enjoyed wracking their brains for fun Barbie facts, discussion time, and learning very important things: like what you would do with a million dollars and only one day to spend it! Mentor Mom Casey Peterson shared some insight and tips on how to deal with tantrums and toddler-aggression. Nicole led us in a very fun Mommy-Jeopardy game, with such categories as "Movies and Popcorn", "Bible Babes", and "Oh Mama!"....cheating was kept to a minimum. After an early lead, Team 3 brought home the victory!

Our verse for this meeting was Proverbs 27:9 Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one's friend springs from his earnest counsel.

Upcoming Events/Announcements:

Next Thursday, February 25th is another MOPS Parkdate at Trailside Park at 9:30.

Start going through your stuff and get ready for the MOPS Swap on Thursday, March 18th. Contact Nicole Lane for more information nrlane5@yahoo.com

If you are interested in serving on the leadership team next year as a discussion group leader or part of the steering team, please let someone in current leadership know or contact Jill Fenner at jillinaz@cox.net

Our next meeting is Thursday, March 4th hosted by the Emerald table. Join us for a little relaxation and de-stressing as we have a mini spa day. Hope to see you there.

MOPS Updates and Events

2010-01-26T16:27:00.001-08:00

Upcoming Events…Our regrets as MOPS & POPS Game Night has been Canceled.

Thursday Park Meeting
MOPS is meeting at Trailside Park this coming Thursday, January 28th from 9:30-11:30. Same time as our MOPS meetings. We don’t have any host food tables at our Park dates, so be sure to bring your own drinks and snacks.

Book Club
There is still some deliberation on the next book for book club. Keep your eyes and ears open for the next title and meeting times. All are welcome. Feel free to ask a mom with experience with this group about it, but be prepared to get an earful. We have only heard great things about this group!

Next Meeting
Our next meeting is on Marriage! What a wonderful topic. The Amethyst table is in charge of hosting our next meeting on February 4th. If you have any questions please contact table leader Heather Stephenson. Looking forward to seeing you on February 4th!

Volunteer Opportunities
FACT: About 8,000 homeless men, women and children are on Maricopa County streets and in our shelters every day. Valley of the Sun United Way is taking action with solutions that address the root causes of homelessness. Project Homeless Connect offers instant access to the resources people in our community need to start the journey back to health, financial stability and housing. This includes access to goods - like food and clothing - and services such as counseling and job placement. Be part of the solution to end homelessness.
Volunteer for Project Homeless Connect.
Positions include:Guest Guide: assist individuals as a chaperone in making contact with service providers.Clean Up: specific shift at end of event.Area Monitor: direct flow of foot traffic, monitor showers.
Project Homeless Connect
When: Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Where: Human Services Campus1201 W Madison Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007(South of Jefferson Street and West of Seventh Avenue)
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. - shifts availableREGISTER TODAY AT www.vsuw.org/volunteer Nicole Lane is registered. Please contact her for more information.

Supplemental Income Opportunity
Two families both with two children have presented a request to find childcare and are willing to have their children at the sitters home for a few days out of the week. If any moms are interested, please contact Nicole Lane for more information.

Thursday, January 21st, 2010

2010-01-25T06:05:00.000-08:00

Finance for Mommies January 21st
Our speaker this week was Scott Nance, a financial advisor discussing our future with finances. He did an excellent job motivating us to check into Wills, Trusts, Long Term Education and Retirement planning. He offered a great first look to spark an interest and held the attention of those who may already have delved into these topics. This guy should go on a tour! It was also interesting to see that we had a variety of knowledge levels on the topic between our Moms. As we know with mentor moms, a mom with experience is a “wealth” of knowledge.

No one went home hungry this week. The only thing the TOPAZ table could’ve done better was to grease the doors so we could get out with more ease. What a wonderful job you did this week TOPAZ Table!

Upcoming Events…
MOPS & POPS Game Night is Friday, January 29th from 7-9pm at Laveen Baptist Church (Our regular MOPS location) Please bring an appetizer or dessert to share. Drinks will be provided. Bonus childcare is provided by MOPPET workers with a much appreciated $5 donation.
Please RSVP to Liz Danzeisen

Book Club
There is still some deliberation on the next book for book club. Keep your eyes and ears open for the next title and meeting times. All are welcome. Feel free to ask a mom with experience with this group about it, but be prepared to get an earful. We have only heard great things about this group!

Next Meeting
Our next meeting is on Marriage! What a wonderful topic.

The Amethyst table is in charge of hosting our next meeting on February 4th. If you have any questions please contact table leader Heather Stephenson.

Looking forward to seeing you on February 4th!

LifeTime Fitness Deal Found by MOPS Mom

2010-01-12T23:51:00.000-08:00

Mary Dominguez found that Lifetime Fitness has a great deal that they're running through the end of the week - $39.99/mo with no sign up and no contract.
It was such a great deal that she thought of you moms to share it with! Thank you Mary!

Homemade Gifts – December 3rd

2009-12-03T21:04:00.000-08:00

Our speaker this week was YOU! We were so delighted to have Kathy in addition to the expertise of our very own creative moms offering some great homemade gifts ideas.

Here are some links and resources on how to make the items you have seen.
Freezer Paper Stencil
http://www.dana-made-it.com/2008/08/tutorial-freezer-paper-stencil-makenna.html
Sippy Cup Leash
http://makeitandloveit.blogspot.com/2009/06/sippy-cup-leash.html
Soup Mix in a Jar
http://www.allfreecrafts.com/giftinajar/soup-mixes.shtml
Nursing Cover
http://sewmuchado.blogspot.com/2009/02/description-stylish-and-practical.html
To Purchase (only paying $8.95 shipping and handling) www.uddercovers.com
Coupon Code:onefree
Pacifier Clipshttp://www.dana-made-it.com/2008/07/pacifier-clips-easy.html
Baby Wrap
http://www.mobywrap.com
Book Resources:
Glove Animals: Sock and Glove
Hat and Scarf: Sewing For Baby
HobbyLobby
www.hobbylobby.com 40% coupon can be printed out here.
Shadow boxes go on sale next week.

What a great idea to have the food (hosted by the Bronze table) placed on a circular table that we could go around and around for more. The food was incredible! Thank you for including all of your best recipes.

The Topaz table is in charge of hosting our next meeting on December 17th. If you have any questions, please contact the table leader, Heather Andrews.

Our Second Annual Cookie and Candy Exchange is at our next meeting December 17th. Participants will make 4-5 dozen cookies/candies to be exchanged. Please email Nicole nrlane5@yahoo.com with your name and type of treat you are planning on making to avoid duplicates.

The Rules of the Cookie Exchange

1. All cookies and candy should be homemade.

2. No plain chocolate chip cookies, cookie mixes, brownies, or no-bakes.

3. Please bring 5-6 dozen total cookies. However many you bring that is the number you take home.

4. The theme is "Christmas candy and cookies"

5. Arrange cookies in a basket or platter and be creative! -Bring a large container to carry away your cookies/candy.
-You may want to label your cookies/candy.

6.You can either e-mail a copy of your recipe(nrlane5@yahoo.com), post it on the discussion tab on the Laveen mops facebook page, or bring copies of the recipe with you.

7. RSVP as soon as you can and let me know what type of cookies you are planning on baking-- we are attempting to eliminate duplicates.

8. If you don't have time to bake, or have burnt your cookies, but still want to attend, you must go to a real bakery and buy 6 dozen cookies.

9. When it is time to exchange please do not take more than one or two of each kind of cookie or candy to ensure everyone gets to taste all of the yummy treats.

10. Don't forget to wear your ugliest Christmas sweater!
Some content courtesy of Cookie-Exchange.com

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Thanksgiving Preparation 11/19

2009-11-19T20:41:00.001-08:00

Our speaker this week was Pat discussing Thanksgiving Preparation.
She did a fabulous job motivating us for the holiday season fast approaching, and excited to use what we may already have to do as women do best... make things BEAUTIFUL!
We even had a contest (see pictures posted). The Emerald table proved to be a real gem by presenting the best centerpiece. So much fun to see all of our creativity come to life!

Gold did a great job on the food. Woah, how about those sausage balls or that creamed coffee cake, among many other new favorites!

Mom's Night Out at Aunt Chilada's was reported to be a great night out! Be sure to check out the pictures.

Reminder … our Book Group is still meeting every Wednesday night at 6:30 pm at Casey’s house. It is not too late to join.

Save the date for our second annual Cookie and Candy Exchange (during Dec 17th Meeting). Participants will make 4-5 dozen cookies/candies to be exchanged. Please email Nicole nrlane5@yahoo.com with your name and type of treat you are planning on making to avoid duplicates.

The Bronze table is in charge of hosting our next meeting on December 3rd. If you have any questions please contact our table leader, Noelle Gallivan.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Operation Christmas Child 11/5

2009-11-05T20:44:00.000-08:00

Our speaker this week was from Operation Christmas Child. She presented the recent trip they took the Dominican Republic to hand out Operation Christmas Child boxes. She showed us what happens to the boxes from when they leave our hands to the child who receives them. We will be putting boxes together individually and dropping them off at the next meeting on November 19th.

We also made some great caramel covered apples. Great job ladies on your creativity! Be sure to see the pictures posted.

Thank You Emerald table for all of the wonderful food prepared. You may be called on to cater new events by moms who were able to make it to today’s meeting.

Reminder … our Book Group is still meeting every Wednesday night at 6:30 pm at Casey’s house. It is not too late to join.

Mom’s Night Out is Friday, November 13th at 7:00pm. It will be a dinner out with just the girls at Aunt Chilada’s Mexican Restaurant. 2021 Baseline Road, Tempe, AZ

Please RSVP to Liz Danzeisen at (480) 226-4001 or evanderschaaf@yahoo.com if you plan to attend and have not already signed up. If you're interested in carpooling, meet at Laveen Baptist Church by 6:20 PM.

Gold table is in charge of hosting our next meeting on 11/19. If you have any questions please contact our table leader, Nicole Cameron.

Our next meeting is on November 19th. Hope to see you there.

Health & Wellness Meeting 10/15

2009-10-15T15:28:00.000-07:00

Dr. Larson from In & Out Chiropractic came and spoke to us today about the importance of a healthy spine. She did a great job demonstrating proper lifting techniques and some simple exercises we can do. It was very informative and a real eye opener.

Thank You Sapphire table for hosting our meeting, the food was delicious.

Reminder that our Book Group is still meeting every Wednesday night at 6:30 pm at Casey’s house. It is not too late to join.

Antiquities has been cancelled. Unfortunately we did not sell enough tickets. Please see the person you purchased the ticket from to get your refund.

Mom’s Night Out is on November 13th. It will be a dinner out with just the girls.

MOPPETS Costume Parade is October 29th at 9 am. Please join us for some fun sharing the holiday spirit with seniors in our community and showing off your adorable MOPPETS in costume! We will be meeting at the entrance of the Life Care Center at South Mountain. It is located at 8008 South Jesse Owens Parkway. Bring your child in costume with a treat bag, the residents will be handing out candy. Please contact Jenn Nelson for additional info or questions. If you did not sign your children up at the meeting today but are interested in participating please contact Jenn as she needs a headcount.

Emerald table is in charge of hosting our next meeting on 11/5. If you have any questions please contact our table leader, Rachel Roland.

Our next meeting is on November 5th. Hope to see you there.

Book Group starts THIS Wednesday!

2009-10-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

ALL MOMS OF PRESCHOOLERS needing a NIGHT OUT!

This Wednesday, October 7th we will begin our BOOK GROUP using the MOPS book, Life on Planet Mom.

6:30-7:55
at Casey Peterson's house
4509 W. McNel St.
602-283-2512
sunshineconsulting@cox.net

Free Childcare provided at the church through AWANA and other programs. Just leave your contact information and let them know you'll be at my house :).

Please come and enjoy a fun night connecting with other moms and discussing this great book. The questions don't really require reading so plan on coming for some great discussion whether you've read the book or not ... we all know how challenging it is to even get 5 minutes to read :) I'll highlight what is said as an intro. to the questions. If you've read it, you'll excited in knowing what we'll be discussing in advance and have the authors tips.
At this first meeting, we will review the introduction and get to know everyone. We will determine how often we will meet ... weekly or every other week.
This book has 6 fun and easy chapters that prompt a lot of memories, emotions and conversations. Many of the topics in this book touch on so many of the Mentor Mom moment questions that I'm looking forward to having a more in-depth conversation about balancing time with your husbands, managing in-law relationships, dealing with the "mundaneness", the list goes on and on. Looking forward to a wonderful discussion time :)

Chapter topics:
* How becoming a mom changes you
* How becoming a mom changes a marriage
* How becoming a mom changes your relationship with your family of origin
* How motherhood changes friendships
* How becoming a mom changes your relationship with the world
* How becoming a mom changes your relationship with God

We have room for 15-20 moms so the more the merrier! If you know of someone that you'd like to bring who isn't in MOPS, please let me know and we'll be sure to get her a book (or borrow one from someone else in the group).

Thanks!
Casey

Community Outreach 10/1

2009-10-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

The main focus of our meeting today was community outreach. We made blankets for the Esperanza Women’s Center and packaged them with some booties, a cap and words of encouragement. We also made little baggies to hand out to the homeless. The baggies included bandaids, wet wipes, cheese and crackers, a piece of candy and a little note. Thank you Jenn Nelson for putting together a great service project and sharing a personal outreach experience with us.

Thank you Amethyst table for hosting our meeting today. You did a great job and were a huge help.

Our book group will be starting next Wednesday, October 7th. We will be going through our theme book for the year, “Life on Planet Mom.” If you are interested there is still time to sign up. Please email Casey at sunshineconsulting@cox.net.

The deadline to purchase tickets for Antiquities is fast approaching. It is only $10 for the photo shoot and picture. If interested, you can purchase tickets from a Steering Team member. The pictures will be taken on October 22, 23, & 24. The money raised will help send Steering Team members to convention next year.

The Sapphire table is in charge of hosting our next meeting on October 15th. If you have any questions please contact your table leader, Melissa McAdams, at melissamcadams6504@yahoo.com.

Our next meeting is Thursday October 15th. We will have a chiropractor speak to us about health and wellness.

See you at the next meeting!

Freezer Meals & Mugs 9/17

2009-09-18T20:03:00.000-07:00

Our speaker was Kristen Reinhardt, Homemade Gourmet Consultant. She gave us statistics on families eating dinner together, breakdown on the family dinner hour, how fast food has changed the way Americans eat and gave practical tips for preparing fast and healthy dinners at home. www.homemadegourmet.com/kristen18392.aspx

We did a fun ice breaker and painted coffee mugs that we can use during our MOPS meetings. Thanks Nicole for the fun craft project. It was a big hit.

Our book group will be starting on October 7th. We will be going through our theme book that comes in the mail once you pay your MOPS International membership. If you are interested in participating in the book group please contact Casey at sunshineconsulting@cox.net.

Melissa McAdams gave birth to our newest Moppet, Connor John, on Thursday September 17th. If you are interested in providing a meal for Melissa and her family please contact Jenn Nelson at jennznelson@yahoo.com.

If you would like to advertise your business in our directory please contact Jen Anderson at jenanderson13@yahoo.com.

We have a park day on Thursday September 24th at Trailside Park at 9:30. Hope to see you there.

The Amethyst table is in charge of hosting our next meeting on October 1st. If you have any questions please contact your table leader, Heather Stephenson, at hdstephenson@hotmail.com.

Our next meeting is on Thursday October 1st. We will be doing a Community Outreach Project. It will be a fun and rewarding meeting.

Enjoy the last couple weeks of September.

First Meeting 9/3

2009-09-05T09:14:00.000-07:00

Thank you ladies for the wonderful first meeting of our 2009-2010 MOPS year. Thanks to Jill and Nicole for the fun games and the Steering Team for the yummy food.

A couple of announcements:

If you are interested in selling or purchasing $10 tickets for the Antiquities photo shoot please email us at laveenmops@yahoo.com. If you sell 15 tickets , you will receive a free photo package worth $149. Here is the link to the Antiquities web page for examples.
http://www.antiquities-studios.com/

If you are interested in helping out the Steering Team please email the person that holds the position. The Steering Team members contact information is located in the handbook and newsletter. We are always looking for people to help out with various tasks.

Construction on the Laveen Baptist Church classrooms will be starting shortly. Please be aware of that when you check in your children for MOPPETS. Thanks for your patience and understanding as the church works to improve their facilities.

Garnet table is hosting the next MOPS meeting on September 17th. Please be sure to arrive by 9:15. If you have any questions please email Kim, your Table Leader, at kimtooth@hotmail.com.

Our next meeting is September 17th. Our speaker will talk about freezer meals and we'll be designing our own coffee mugs to use for the year so we can go green.

Have a great couple of weeks and see you on September 17th.

It's time for MOPS!

2009-08-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

Please join us as we kick off another exciting year! We will be exploring our new theme, "Together on Planet Mom", introducing our new Steering Team, as well as enjoying delicious food and the company of fellow moms!

MOPS starts Thursday September 3, 2009 at 9:30 - 11:30 AM. MOPPETS check-in begins at 9:20 in the Main Sanctuary.

See you there!

Summer Park Playdates

2009-05-14T23:49:00.000-07:00

Join us for some informal play time this summer. We'll continue to meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month at 9:30 starting May 21st at Trailside Park. The park is on 71st Ave. and Vineyard (between Baseline and Southern) in the Trailside Point Community. It has a covered playground and a spray pad so bring some towels. There won't be any snacks or drinks provided so bring your own if you want some coffee (iced.....of course ;o) Feel free to bring your friends, older kids, and sense of humor. And as always, e-mail any questions to laveenmops@yahoo.com See you there!

Coupons!

2009-04-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here is some information from one of our MOPS moms, Denise Keller. We hope that you all will find this useful!

I have decided to take charge of this and make it handy for all of us who use coupons.

This is the way it is going to work:

1. Everyone write down any coupon sites you know

2. Everyone write down either the manufacturer or the brand of items for which you need coupons

3. Using these lists, this information will be shared and available for use

4. Bring coupons you do not use, but know that others will use

5. They will be seperated by the following:

a.grocery items (food/canned goods,cereal,etc.)

b.paper products (paper towels, toliet paper,etc.)

c.Baby (diapers,formula,training pants,etc.)

6. I don't forsee any other catagories nescessary - feel free to let me know

7. You will need to check the coupon boxes for the coupons you need

8. At the end of every month, I will throw away any coupons that have not been taken, whether they are expired or not to reduce the amount of coupons that need to be looked through.

Other than that, happy cutting and saving!!!!

I would like to keep this going even when MOPS is not meeting so maybe we can come up with times and days to meet to keep sharing the coupons?!?

Loadable sites:(these load into your store card)
http://www.pgesaver.com
http://shortcuts.com/www.safeway.com
You can also link your store card with your cell phone-see www.frysfood.com for more info
Thank you!
Denise Keller

MOMFEST

2009-04-15T15:38:00.001-07:00

A little bit late, here are the announcements from the last meeting including the information for MOMFEST... I hope you all had a blessed Easter holiday and I look forward to seeing you at our next MOPS meeting tomorrow morning:)

April 24 is a Mom's Night Out called MOMFEST which will be hosted by the Desert Springs Bible Church MOPS group. All women are invited, not just MOPS moms, so invite your friends, sisters, & moms for a great night of shopping, music, prizes and fun! MOMFEST begins at 6pm. There is no fee to attend MOMFEST. The address to Desert Springs Bible Church is 16215 N. Tatum Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85032. If you're interested in carpooling please email us at laveenmops@yahoo.com.

April 25 is the MOPS International Leadership Summit, it is a full day event, 8am-4pm, and will also be held at Desert Springs Bible Church. The cost for the leadership summit is $32.50. This event is open to all MOPS moms who are interested in leadership within our MOPS group.
Please RSVP to Melissa asap if you're interested in attending.

Another of our MOPS moms joyfully welcomed a new baby this month, Rachel Roland gave birth to a baby girl, Sarah Teresa. Mom and baby are home and doing well. Congratulations Rachel!

Spa Day

2009-03-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

Hello! I hope all of you ladies enjoyed our annual Spa Day! It seemed to be a great success! Can't wait for next years Spa Day - it is always a favorite! Thank you to the Steering Team for all of the planning and coordination that went in to Spa Day!
Our next meeting is Thursday, April 2nd! Hope to see you all there!

Updates

2009-03-07T07:42:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to Pastor Jerry for his inspirational talk on parenting. It is so easy to forget just how important our roles as parents are in the busy lives we lead today! Pastor Jerry's parenting class using, "Shepherding a Child's Heart," by Tedd Tripp will begin on Sunday, March 15th at 4:30PM at Laveen Baptist Church.
Thank you also to the members of the Steering Team for improving the check-in process! What did you think, ladies? How cute are all of our clothes pins?
Remember that our next meeting on March 19th is our annual SPA DAY! Everyone knows that this is one of the meetings you definitely do not want to miss! Hope you all can make it - it is going to be a great morning!
We would also like to ask all of you to consider being on the Steering Team next year. We would like to have everyone in their positions by April 24th so the old, returning and new steering team members can attend the Leadership Summit together on Saturday, April 25th! Please contact us at laveenmops@yahoo.com asap! We would love to have you!
Thanks Ladies and have a great week!

Love Dare #2

2009-03-04T09:55:00.000-08:00

Love is Kind

~Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.~

-Ephesians 4:32-

Kindness can be broken down into four basic core ingredients: Gentleness, Helpfulness, Willingness and Initiative. You will never learn to love until you learn to demonstrate kindness.

In addition to saying nothing negative to your spouse again today, do at least one unexpected gesture as an act of kindness.

The Love Dare #1

2009-03-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

Love is Patient

~Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.~

-Ephesians 4:2-

Although love is communicated in a number of ways, our words often reflect the condition of our heart. For the next day, resolve to demonstrate patience and to say nothing negative to your spouse at all. If the temptation arises, choose not to say anything. It's better to hold your tongue than to say something you'll regret.

Pregnancy Announcements!!

2009-02-18T22:29:00.001-08:00

Here are two of our most recent pregnancy announcements!! If you have an announcement to make via blog, please send your announcement to Melissa at melvan82@yahoo.com or laveenmops@yahoo.com and we'll post it for you! Congrats to this month's newly expectant ladies!

"My husband Kevin and I are expecting our third child on September 13. This was a bit of a surprise for us but we believe it is such a blessing from God. We have a boy, named Caleb, who will be 3 in June and a girl, named Jenna, who is almost 17 months. I think we will be finding out the sex. I am hoping that it is a boy so I can convince my husband that 3 children is a good place to stop ( I think if it was a girl we would have to try for another boy). I have been feeling nauseous but I only have gotten sick once (which is great for me this far along). I am so excited to see who this baby looks like!" - Melanie Danzeisen

"I am due in late September, we definitely plan to find out the sex of the baby (hubby's praying BOY) Kid #4 (first three girls). We tried for TWO YEARS (!!?!!!!), so this pregnancy is very planned and very wanted. I've been feeling terrible but am still happy about it because it's SO WORTH IT. I'm now scooted into the 'high risk' category because I'm OLD. OLD?!! I still have pimples, I can't possibly be old. After this one, it'll be curtains for my uterus." - Kristi Newman

Great Site!

2009-02-11T21:08:00.000-08:00

I was just perusing the internet for some fun stuff to do with my kids & came across this amazing website with some great ideas for fun learning activities. If you're intersted in some new ideas the site is www.playfulearning.com Enjoy!

Meeting Announcements

2009-02-05T13:28:00.000-08:00

Wonderful meeting today! Thanks to Jill for being an amazing speaker!

Here are the announcements as promised:)

· Laveen BBQ Sunday, February 8. Please sign up to help at our booth (Changing station & nursing mom’s room), see the email for specific times, please reply to all with your time sign up. If you’d like to donate items(we are in need of some diapers in varied sizes and the trial size hand sanitizers), please bring them to Melissa (602) 795-0515 by Saturday evening. Thanks to those who have already donated, the mom's of Laveen will appreciate our efforts!

·Valentines Day Parents Night Out Saturday, February 14 at Laveen Baptist Church. $10 donation per child for reserved spots, $15 per child for drop-ins. 5-9pm. Benefits the American Cancer Society. To RSVP call Patty Springerly at 602-237-3043, leave a message with number of kids and ages.

· MOPS meeting Thursday, February 19. Master Michelle Lee will be giving us a FREE self-defense course!

· MOPS/POPS annual game night Friday, February 20 at 6:30 (games start @ 7) Bring your spouse or significant other for a fun night of games. Steering Team will provide drinks. You provide appetizers and desserts pot luck style. Child care will be provided at the church for a small fee ($5 per child or at your discretion).

· Coffee and Cards at Arizona Mills Food Court, February 26 at 7pm. Come and meet your MOPS friends for an informal meeting to visit and make cards for military families to send to loved ones overseas.

****Please Note that due to an upcoming construction project at Laveen Baptist Church, we have decided to modify our MOPS calendar, our Last meeting date for 2008-2009 will now be May 7 ****

· Please encourage all MOPS moms to visit our blog at http://www.laveenmops.blogspot.com/ :)