Kenosha County Parents of Multiples

September Meeting

2008-10-09T12:16:00.001-05:00

Our September meeting was a lot of fun. Those in attendance made a mini-Halloween scrapbook. Some of us were even on the ball and brought pictures (not me). Our next meeting will be at 7 pm on Tuesday, October 21st. Our next Girls' Night Out will be next Wednesday, October 8th at 7 at Honada (on Hwy 50 between 94 and Green Bay Road). They have great food and it's really cool to watch them cook it on the grill in front of you. Please RSVP to Jamie

Have a great weekend!

Traci

Organizing Info

2008-06-04T21:34:00.001-05:00

Roxanne just let me know the email I'd sent after I spoke at your meeting went to her spam folder. I'd sent it from my business email, so yours may have been blocked also. So I apologize if you didn't receive this info earlier.

Hi Everybody,

After the meeting, I realized I hadn�t addressed the issue of mail/papers/stuff accumulating on the kitchen counters. I few ideas on that: Make files for all the info that is now piled on the counters. That may include files for: bills to pay, (if you have lots of medical bills, you may want a separate file for each child�s med bills & EOBs/insurance info), phone calls, errands, kids schedules, catalogs, info to file, etc. Try to sort the mail daily, putting it in the appropriate file or recycling it. (If you often have mail that should be shredded, having a �to shred� file to store that mail until you can get to shredding may help. Store in a desktop file box on the counter or a wire vertical file organizer in a cabinet or wall mounted magazine rack or wall file pockets. Have another container/basket for things that belong elsewhere. At least once a week put everything back where it goes. If the items that accumulate are children�s things, that could be a weekly job for a child.

More thoughts on the mudroom (or lack of mudroom). Is there space for hooks and a shelf or containers for shoes, hats, mittens, etc? (Either right inside the door or in the garage.) Maybe hooks could be mounted on the door. Or use an over-the-door purse organizer (like a shoe organizer, but bigger pockets so children�s boots will fit) for boots, shoes, hats, mittens, etc and put hooks on a wall.

To address some comments on evaluations:

How do you get mentally prepared to organize? Do whatever helps you:

q invite a friend to join you � it�s always nice to have someone to talk to, give opinions, & make the work go faster

q listen to your favorite music as you work

q after you complete your goal (work for 2 hrs or get the dresser organized or sort through that pile of papers) reward yourself � have dessert, read a book (not a child�s picture book), watch TV (not Barney), go for a walk

q trade with a friend � she takes the kids while you organize, than you take her kids while she has a break.

Once you get started people find it much easier to keep going. It�s just the �where to begin?� phase that can be overwhelming.

How do you find a home for everything? Be creative � using vertical storage: shelves & wall space so you don�t use floor space. Use under bed storage. Store seldom used items on shelves in the basement or above-head storage in the garage. Wal-Mart & Target have wire racks that you put in kitchen cabinets that give you an extra shelf. Hanging pots & pans opens up more cabinet space. There are plastic 3-drawer units that fit under the sink in the bathroom for more storage. Store toys behind the couch or other furniture or in ottomans that have storage (Target has those). And lets face it, not all homes have enough space. Young children have lots of big equipment that takes up space.

The most important thing to remember is you want to be organized enough that you can find most items in your home the majority of the time, organized enough that you have some time to enjoy your children. Don�t shoot for perfection. As Karen said, you want your home to be comfortable.

I�ve attached the grocery list in 2 forms. They are the same list: one is printed portrait and the other landscape. The portrait works well with a small clipboard and the landscape with a full size clipboard. For those of you that weren�t at the meeting, I suggested you change the list, customizing it for what your family buys. It takes a bit to get used to, but is worth it. Because the items are grouped by category like at the store, you don�t get to the end of the store and have to go back for what you�ve missed.

The Tips for Organizing Children�s Spaces is the same flier you received at the meeting. Throw the paper away! If you want to refer to the info, now you have it on your computer. I don�t want to be adding to your clutter.

I�ve also attached suggested time to keep records.

Thanks for allowing me to speak to your group. I hope you were able to find an organizing idea or two that would work for you. I know your time with other adults is valuable and appreciate that you spent it with me! Feel free to contact me with any questions, ideas, suggestions.

Have a great week,

Pam

Pam Wedig-Kirsch

Professional Organizer

262-515-3200

SimpleSpaces Organizing

Helping busy families simplify their homes and lives.

www.simplespacesorg.blogspot.com/

May Meeting minutes

2008-05-27T11:34:00.000-05:00

Hello All -

We had a great meeting tonight with Professional Organizer Pam Wedig-Kirsch speaking. She gave us many tips on ways to get organized. We learned the steps to organize a space & tips for organizing children's spaces. We were given lots of ideas on getting the children involved in the routines & how to make a grocery shopping list easier. We also signed up to receive some information from Pam, you can contact her at simplespaces@earthlink.net to get in on her e-mail tips.

Thanks Pam for all of the great advice and best of luck.

Is anyone interested in summer play dates at the park? In the past we met once a week at various parks around Kenosha. Last year it was Wed from 10:30 - 12:00. Let me know if you are interested & days of the week and time that is best for you, also is there any interest in Saturday park dates. Once or twice a month? Let me know and I will pass the information along.

Thanks

Roxanne

Organizing

2008-05-09T08:37:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I'm looking forward to your meeting on the 20th. If you questions about organizing specific areas of your home, shoot me an email. I'll make sure I include them in our discussion.

Also, I've just started a blog. Check it out at http://www.simplespacesorg.blogspot.com/. Be sure to comment. I'd love to hear what you have to say.

Thanks,

Pam Wedig-Kirsch

Professional Organizer

262-515-3200

SimpleSpaces Organizing

Helping busy families simplify their homes and lives.

KCPOM March Meeting Minutes

2008-03-27T13:15:00.000-05:00

We had a great turn-out at our monthly meeting yesterday. We had 3 sets of
twins (32 y.o. identical girls, 17 y.o. identical boys, and 13 y.o identical
girls). They were very informative, and willingly answered all of our
questions.

Our next meeting is planned for Tuesday, April 15th @ 7. We're planning on
having somewhere available for chair massages - I can't wait! Unfortunately
Kerry and Lorena are thinking they might not make it as they're nearing the
end. We're looking forward to meeting two more sets of twins!

The next Girls' Night Out is Wedneday, April 9th @ 7. We thought we'd
switch it to a Wednesday to give those moms who have things going on Tuesday
nights a chance to meet up with the group. Dinner will be at Los Consuelos
(sp?), located on 22nd in Uptown (60th or 63rd street). I'll get the
correct spelling and address by then.

Jen Johnson had business cards made up and they look great! Roxanne has
them if you want to get a couple to hand out when you meet a new mom.

The White Caps rummage sale is the first week of May. Last year we held
the group's sale at JR's house. We need to double check with her that's
still okay, but that's the plan for now. So if you have anything you would
like to donate to the group to sell, that'd be great. We'll probably also
need some volunteers to help set up and sell.

Have a great Easter!

Traci

Banking

2007-08-22T15:18:00.000-05:00

I've been procrastinating on researching checking accounts. I'd researched a few local banks previously. Suggestions were made to check credit unions and online banking, so here is my undated info:

AMCCU has $2.00 monthly fee, .35% interest with a $750 minimum, 3 locations in Kenosha and on-line banking.

Southern Lakes Credit Union has a $6.00 monthly fee and pays interest with a $500 minimum.

US Bank - online has a $100 minimum to open, no fees, and does not pay interest until balance is over $10,000.

Chase has free checking for 1 year, then $9.00 per month or $4000 minimum balance. They do pay interest on checking. The current rate is .4%

Johnson Bank has free checking with no minimum balance. - no interest on checking. If we chose to have online banking, there would be a $6.00 per month fee. If we had a savings account, if the balance was above $300, we would receive interest at a rate of .4%.

I think Johnson is still our best bet.

Sorry I missed the August meeting. We were on vacation. Through the school year, I have another commitment on Wednesday evenings, but maybe I'll make a Mom's night out every now & again.

Thanks,

Pam

June Meeting

2007-07-04T21:33:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone -
I have decided I take terrible notes but will do my best to let you know what happened at our meeting June 17th at the SW library. As a "regular" at the monthly meetings we had a larger than in the past months turnout. Sistina, Shantel, Christina, Shannon, Jennifer R, Traci, Lori V, Pam, Karen S, Liz and myself attended. I think moving the monthly meetings into town will bring more members together. Traci G. is checking on the availability of KAC on 60th Ave. as the monthly meeting spot, otherwise it will be at one of the area libraries to be determined monthly.
Our next "meeting" will be Girl's Night Out at WINE KNOT http://www.wine-knot.com/ Tues. July 17th at 7:00.
As you have read - Pam was checking on where to keep the groups money. Currently we have $311.88 plus $20.35 in .37 stamps that I have offered to buy if we can't use them. This is after the purchase of a gas card for Jen J. and family. The surgery for Gabe scheduled for 7/5 has been pushed back a week to 7/12. Jen has set up a web page http://www.carepages.com/ServeCarePage?cpn=GabeJohnson&extrefid=tlcinvite
that she will be updating when possible.
Christina M offered to update a freebies list.
Jennifer R is working on a flyer to hand out to area doctors.
Sistina will be working on new "business" cards when/where the monthly meetings are held is decided.
Shantel is checking if it is possible for our group to get tax exempt status.
Future meeting topic - Twin panel - Sept?
It has been decided Sept. will be when we have a change in officers. Anyone interested in running for President, Vice-president, Treasurer or Secretary please let me know.
Thanks Liz for the e-mails with updates to the web page. You do an awesome job!
I received an e-mail from expecting mom Katie M. We met at the White Caps rummage sale.

KCPoM Yard Sale

2007-04-02T09:43:00.000-05:00

Kenosha County Parents of Multiples Club

Yard Sale Fund-Raiser
Saturday, May 5 9am-1pm
7027-92nd Avenue, Kenosha
(In conjunction with Whitecaps Subdivision Yard Sale)
Can you Help?
Donate Items: Price any items that you have and then bring them to 7027-92^nd Avenue, Kenosha on Saturday, April 28 8am-10am or Tuesday-Thursday, May 1-3 8am-1pm. You can also call 262-697-7790 to make other arrangements. (price them "to sell" and we will adjust the pricing on Friday if we needed to remain consistant)

Set Up: Bring tables and creativity to help stage the items on Friday, May 4 10am-noon.

The Sale: Set the driveway and be ready for the WhiteCaps Sale to begin then Sell Sell SELL! Then break down and prepare any items for donation (of course everything will sell so we won’t worry about that!). Help is needed on Saturday, May 5 from 7:30am-2pm. Whatever time you can give is appreciated.

Put Up Flyers and Spread the Word: Print out the “Yard Sale” Flyer and post it anywhere and everywhere that you can and/or hand it out. (schools, stores, mailboxes, distribute at kids activities, church, etc). Feel free to e-mail it to anyone and everyone that you know that might be interested in donating and/or purchasing.

Anything else?: Call 262-697-7790

March Meeting

2007-03-27T10:50:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Sandy for taking notes -

Spring Party - April 22 - 11:30am to 2:30pm - Potluck - Bring a dish - at Sistina's - Egg Hunt - Bring 10 filled (candy/toy) eggs per child participating in hunt and basket for collecting - ideas for organized activity?

Funds - 3 Walmart gift cards - Karen checking amounts - Buying craft supplies to use at party, napkins & cups -

$20 in .37 stamp - Roxanne offered to buy for her personal use

Should have financials in order for next meeting

Fundraiser - May 5th - White Caps garage sale - Jennifer has volunteered her driveway to hold a club sale - donations to benefit club - more details to follow

KAC Playgroup - 1st & 3rd Thursday 11-12:30 - need new coordinator

Summer playgroups - weekly 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays - more info to follow-

Saturday , Yes - more info to follow

Spring Break - If the weather is nice plan on a date at a park - Washington Bowl?

Monthly Meetings - scheduled through May at County Center - Karen checking on Gander Mountain or library - ideas for speakers - twin panel, massage, yoga, dietitian

New Mom's Greeting Packet - Jennifer is taking over coordinating the greeting packet & working on idea of getting moms together, maybe by where they live?, questionaire

State Spring Meeting April 21 Milwaukee- Deadline April 4th -

Mom's Night Out - Wed April 11th 7p.m. at Chili's on 75th

Next meeting - Wed 4/18 at the County Center -

Agenda -Follow up March meeting items

January Monthly Meeting

2007-02-20T16:01:00.000-06:00

Hello All -

'Lynn Buschmann - 1st V.P of the Wisconsin Organization of Mothers of Twins joined our meeting. She brought information on the next convention which is April 20th and 21st in Milwaukee(more info to follow) and a couple of ideas on the benifits of joining State. Besides the quartely newsletter, the Spring and Fall conventions where you can meet other mothers of multiples around the state, there is a message board at http://www.womotc.org/ , info on the Special Needs Network and many other things. I think the 2007 research project they are working on is keeping twins together or separating in school.

Christina M is our State Rep, you can contact her if you are interested in joining.

Thanks

Roxanne

Christmas Party

2006-12-05T15:44:00.000-06:00

Happy Holiday's -

We had 11 families celebrating at the children's party this past Saturday, with a total of 29 children. They decorated cookies (thanks Sistina), threw marshmellows into a snowman's mouth (thanks Karen S.) and were able to decorate stockings, a christmas tree and take home their own Santa mask (thanks Sandy S for the projects). There was also lots of good food, music and a special visit from Santa Claus to hand out presents. A special thanks also goes to Sandy S who didn't give up on her search for the Santa's outfit and asked me to pass her # along if you would like to borrow it.

Reminder:

MOM'S XMAS PARTY

WED DEC. 13, 2006
LUPITA'S RESTAURANT 2200-60TH ST
Cocktails - 6:30
Dinner - 7:00
We will continue the tradition of an ornament exchange/steal.
Bring a wrapped ornament $5.00 limit.

RSVP to me/Roxanne
Hope to hear from you soon.
Roxanne

FW: parents of twins

2006-11-13T21:15:00.000-06:00

> Subject: parents of twins
>
> To whom it may concern,
> I'm not certain who at your club I need to speak with but I am hopeful
you can either forward this on, or let me know who to contact.
> My name is Diane Cates and I am a member of the Loudoun/Fairfax Mothers
of Multiples Club. In addition, I am working on my dissertation which
involves twin development. I was hoping that your club might be able to
assist me in obtaining participants for my study by informing your members
about the study. I am in need of participants and thus need to get the word
out about the study ( I need parents of twins ages 3 to 5). It would be
very helpful if your club would be willing to provide information to your
members through your newsletter or other means. (I have gotten permission
from the national organization for the study - see below). Privacy of
members should not be an issue since all material is done via survey which
does not include any names or address information, thus when a survey comes
to me I have no idea who filled it out. And all data will be reported in
aggregate form. I have included more information about the study below. If
you have any more questions please
>
>
>
>
> don't hesitate to contact me by email or by phone at 703-304-9918.
>
>
> My dissertation explores how parentally assessed child temperament may
impact parental attachment among twin children between the ages of three
and five. The study uses a questionnaires to assess parental perception of
temperament and the quality of the attachment relationship. Forms for
demographic information and to establish zygosity will also be included.
Questionnaires can be sent through the mail or email and participants can
be from any part of the United States. Participants can specify how they
would like to receive the questionnaires and provide their address or email
address and the information will be sent to them.
>
> I am attempting to gather about 200 participants for the study. I need
parents with twins between the ages of three and five. The questionnaires
would take about 1 hour to complete. Parents who want to be in the study
can contact me/Diane Cates at dcates@gwu.edu or by phone at 703-304-9918.
>
> Attachment Theory has been used as a predictor of strength in
parent-child relationships (Damato, 1998). Attachment, the relationship
between child and caretakers, has been found to be a good predictor of
maladjustment in later childhood (Schmitz, 1996). Infants who have been
found to be securely attached appear to be more socially competent, to cope
better with stress and to have better relationships with peers (Willinger,
Diendorfer-Radner, Willnauer, Jorgl, & Hager., 2005). Early attachment
experiences are believed to have an impact on the development of an
individual because basic expectations about the world and one�s self are
established.
>
> I view my dissertation is a positive step in learning about the
development of multiple birth children. It is hoped that findings from my
study will lend insight into how to better prepare for families and
professionals working with twins in dealing with multiple births and to
assist these families and professionals working with these families in
optimizing the development of twin children.
>
> I hope the club can help. Thanks for your time and consideration.
> Diane Cates

Oct Meeting Minutes

2006-10-22T13:57:00.000-05:00

Meeting Minutes
KCPOM
October 2006

Welcome to Wendy, our newest member.
Christina has volunteered to take over the state rep position and
I will take over the treasurer.

Dec 2 is the Family Christmas Party - As usual, it will be held at the Kenosha County Bldg. Does anyone know a Santa who could make an appearance? Also we'd like to have a committee to help Shantel. Any volunteers?

Upcoming Meetings:

November - Crafty night - bring a craft to share, or come and learn a craft.

December - Mom's Holiday Party - and ornament exchange. Instead of meeting the third Wed, the date will be Wed, Dec 13, so it's not so close to Christmas. Please email suggestions of where we'd like to meet to Roxanne or me. Famous Dave's is one idea.

We'd like to have a twins panel or parents of grown twins panel. If you know anyone that fits this description and would enjoy telling us about his/her twin experience, let us know.

Roxanne - I don't have Wendy's email address yet, so could you forward this to her?

Pam

August Meeting Minutes

2006-08-17T19:49:00.000-05:00

Meeting Minutes

KCPOM

August 2006

Sandy has volunteered to put together a "twins packet" for new moms to include the info we had previously distributed as well as info on medical issues. She is a pediatric nurse practitioner and is willing to be a resource for parents with any health questions/concerns. She is also interested in presenting to our group, if we have a particular health topic. Also, as an adoptive parent, she would like to be a resource/support for parents who have adopted.

Membership Involvement:

A big thank you to Shantel for sending out the weekly reminders, keeping us all connected!!!

We discussed the various roles in our group and came up with a list of positions we would like volunteers for:

Meeting coordinator - a person to arrange speakers. The group members would continue to suggest topics and use contacts to find speakers. The coordinator would just coordinate the speakers.
Play group coordinator - play groups meet twice per month at KAC. (Roxanne will continue if Karen doesn't want to.)
In-home play group coordinator - if there is an interest in in-home play groups?
State Representative - do we want to continue with state membership? Members present felt we could continue as we have been - members choose if they want to join state.
Meeting facilitator
Co-secretary - I am willing to continue in this role, but don't consistently make it to the meetings. Is someone would be willing to email minutes when I'm not there?

UPCOMING MEETING TOPICS

Sept - Mom's night out (since we didn't do it in July). We are meeting at the Boat House on Lake Michigan in Kenosha for our Sept meeting, Wed 9/20 at 7:00 PM, for an evening of laughter and camaraderie!

Oct - to be announced

November - Crafty night - bring a craft to share, or come and learn a craft.

We'd like to have a twins panel or parents of grown twins panel. If you know anyone that fits this description and would enjoy telling us about his/her twin experience, let us know.

FW: State convention

2006-03-13T08:32:00.000-06:00

From: Roxanne Holtman

Hi Everyone - State convention is April 29th. If you need a registration form let me know and I will forward it.

The Colors of Spring

Spring Meeting 2006

Hosted by West Bend MOTC

April 29,2006

Schedule of Events: 8:30a.m. – 9:45a.m. –Selling Tables and Raffles

10:00a.m. – Welcome

10:30a.m. – Spring Craft

Noon – Lunch

1:30p.m. – Speaker

3:00p.m. – Last chance raffles

3:30p.m. – Raffle drawings

Menu choices:

Ranch, Turkey& Bacon Wrap- Sliced turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cucumbers, and shredded cheese, topped with a ranch sauce. Includes French fries.

French Dip- Sliced roast beef served on a bun with warm Au Jus served on the side. Includes French fries.

Chicken Caesar Salad- Strips of boneless chicken breast served on a bed of romaine greens with Parmesan cheese and croutons. Served with fresh rolls and butter, assorted crackers.

Beverages included: coffee, tea, or milk

Accommodations:

Clairemont Inn & Suites, 2520 W. Washington St., West Bend, WI 53090

(262) 338-0636

www.clairemontinn.com

WOMOTC rates are: $79.95 + tax. Includes continental breakfast.

Grant proposal

2006-02-19T22:03:00.000-06:00

First, I have some great news: next meeting, March, a prospective member is coming and she is bringing her massage chair! So well have a "Picture, story and a massage" meeting.

OK, I have a rough draft. Please help. Read it over. Please be critical - if you don't like the way it's worded, if it seems unclear, if it seems repetitious, let me know. Suggestions are welcome. Pay special attention to areas that are in bold, I have questions about them - I'm not sure of the name of the building or how often we have play groups or I just didn't like the wording so am looking for suggestions.

I have a few specific questions:

Roxanne - Who should I list as the contact?

Who do I list as administering the grant? Would it be the board?

Sistina & Shantel - Do you have an approximate cost of the picnic we catered? And what would it cost to that to kick it up another notch - magician or some type of children's entertainment?

I know we are pushing to meet a deadline. I'd like to get a first copy to Cory by Tuesday, so if you could get your comments back to me by 8:00pm on Monday - yes, today if you are reading this when it's light outside - I'd appreciate it. Lori's husband, will be reviewing it for us once we get a final draft, so we need to give him some time to look it over.

Thanks for your input.

Pam

Feb Meeting

2006-02-16T23:04:00.000-06:00

Sorry you haven't received minutes from the last few meetings - I hadn't attended, so no minutes.

Welcome to Karen, she is a mother of 13 month old boy/girl twins!

We plan to apply for the Rotary Grant. Anyone interested in helping, let me know. Also, we are open to any suggestions for how you would like to see the grant used - let me know. Once we have a rough draft, everyone will receive it. Please give suggestions/ideas even after you receive the draft. The deadline is fast approaching, so we need to have a draft done SOON!

We discussed doing a twins garage sale/bake sale? We could do it at Lori's home when they have a neighborhood garage sale.

Another fundraiser idea: we can get a table at the state convention and sell items (we have many crafty members)

Upcoming meeting topics:

March - Picture & a Story - bring a picture and share a story

July - Mom's night out

Please email me with any topics you would like to see at upcoming meetings.

Sistina will check on having a nutritionist speak

Lori is checking on having a speech therapist and early childhood teacher speak

We would like to make the twins panel an annual event. If you know adult twins who would be willing to visit our group, let me know.

In the past we have advertised in several publications (that do not charge for advertising). We are looking for a volunteer to do the advertising. It can be done from the comfort of your home via internet. Contact Roxanne if you are willing. Thanks!

Pam

scrapbooking

2006-02-14T20:27:00.000-06:00

Several members had expressed an interest in going to a scrapbooking "crop" - working on your scrapbook at the store, where there is space to spread out and get any needed supplies. I am going to crops at Remembering When Scrapbook Store in Antioch on Sat Feb 18 from 6-midnight and Sat, Feb 25 from 6-2am. If you are interested, you need to call to reserve space (they do fill up). Cost is $10 on the 18th and $12 on the 25th. That includes snacks and beverages and 10% off on purchases made that night. The phone number is 847/838-6000. The website is www.rwscrapbooking.com if you are interested in more info about the store.

Pam

RE: Rotary Grant

2006-02-13T20:14:00.000-06:00

The form does ask for exempt status. I think having it would give us more credibility.

Ideas I have:

Meals for familes while Mom is on bedrest, or child hospitalized, or new babies.

Care baskets for Mom while on bedrest - books, videos, crafts, etc.

Movies/Books about twins for the club and community libraries.

Summer picnic

Holiday Party

State and national dues

Pay for 2-4 members to attend conventions

safety equipment for homes

Child care services for family

Speakers on topics of interest: sibling rivalry, discipline, etc

Internet fee

I don't think I'll be at the next meeting. My husband will probably be out of town - he's been traveling a lot lately.

My computer crashed so I don't have our directory. Could you send it to me? Thanks

Let me know who is interested in helping with the grant. And let me know of any suggestions people have.

Thanks,

Pam

----- Original Message -----

Sent: 2/12/2006 9:51:38 AM

Subject: RE: Rotary Grant

Welcome back! Sounds like fun. No one has volunteered but Shantel said Liz was interested so I sent her an e-mail on Friday. It would be great if you could head the committee, I will forward you the e-mails I have received about the grant and what I sent to Liz. I talked to Cory about our group applying for the grant, I thought with her experience she could provide some insight. She thought we may need a tax exempt # but when I reread the grant application I didn't think it was required. What do you think? If we did we could contact state and see if we could use theirs or Cory said we could write something and she could piggyback it with the Sprouts grant proposal she was sending in.

Thanks for volunteering to take over. We have been the House of FLU for over a week besides helping my Mom and the boys have turned into terrors. It seems if I am distracted trying to do something else all control is lost.

Talk to you soon

Roxanne

Kirsch Family wrote:

I would be interested. I've been gone, so I haven't seen Shantel's email. Has anyone else volunteered? Has someone started working on this? I'd be happy to help or head it, whichever is needed. Let me know.

My sister got married in Cancun, so I've been on vacation for the past week, enjoying the sun, eating lots, and relaxing with my family! Now, I'm catching up on laundry and sorting through 43 emails.

Take care,

Pam

----- Original Message -----

Sent: 2/7/2006 11:03:17 AM

Subject: Rotary Grant

Hi Everyone -

Shantel had e-mailed a couple of weeks ago about this...

Just an idea...I saw the article in the paper. The
Kenosha Rotary gives away over $30,000 each year for
grants to non-profit organizations that serve Kenosha
and Kenosha County.

The link is
www.kenoshawestrotary.org/   then click on grant
information.

They give away up to $2,000 for each acceptance
proposal, and the forms aren't due until early March.

Does anyone have ideas on how we could use grant money? In the past we donated books to the library, made gift baskets and had a summer picnic.

Please let me know ideas and/or if you would like to head the committee to put this together.

Thanks,

Roxanne

FW: Triple and Quad Strollers for Sale!

2005-12-05T21:36:00.000-06:00

Blayne kirsch

----- Original Message -----

Sent: 12/2/2005 5:26:55 PM

Subject: Triple and Quad Strollers for Sale!

Hi everyone!

I wanted to let all of you know that we have several strollers for sale in our triplet/quad moms' group. We have several Peg Peregos for around $200, and two quad Runabouts. One of the quad RAs is only $250 and the other is $400. Can you pass the word on to MOMs in your area? Our moms are anxious to sell these strollers, and they are just not getting any takers around here. If anyone is interested, have them contact me.

Thanks!

Jennifer Powell
SE Wisconsin Mothers of Triplets & More
mom to BBB who are ... gasp!...almost 5!

forgotten items from partty

2005-12-05T21:31:00.000-06:00

When I left the Christmas party on Sat, I forgot a bag of Creative Memories stuff and an ivory ceramic serving dish. If someone picked these up for me, THANK YOU, and please let me know.

Pam

Nov 16 Meeting

2005-11-22T07:21:00.000-06:00

- Roxanne attended the State Convention. Discussions focused on decreased membership.

Apr 29, 2006, is the next state meeting. It will be held in the Milwaukee area.

- The family holiday party is Sat, Dec 3, at 11:00, at the Kenosha County Building. RSVP to Shantel.

- Wed, Dec 21, our holiday party is at the Birchwood Grill at 7:00 pm. Spouses are welcome. Appetizers & pizza will be served. If interested in participating in the ornament exchange, bring a wrapped ornament ($5.00 limit).

- At the Jan meeting, we will plan upcoming meeting topics. If you have a specific topic you would like to hear a speaker on, or if you have a talent you'd be willing to share, let us know.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving celebrations.

Pam

Sept meeting

2005-09-25T10:03:00.000-05:00

Minutes of Sept 20 meeting

- We each made a card with the guidance of a creative memories consultant.

- Christine had twin girls. Everyone is healthy.

- Esmeralda attended for the first time. She is expecting twins.

- Multiples Rummage Sale - Sat. Oct 15 from 8 am - 2 pm.

Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church

1205 South East Ave

Waukesha

(behind Kmart on Sunset Ave)

For more info contact Leslie

- Anyone willing to take over the state representative position, contact Roxanne.

- Upcoming meeting topics:

Oct - twin share

Nov - crafts

Dec - dinner & ornament exchange

Any suggestions for meeting topics are welcome!

Pam

KCPOM Weekly Reminder

2005-09-07T17:11:00.000-05:00

Hello-

We have a light week this time around. Next week we will begin our Wednesday fieldtrips (2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month)...sure to be a lot of fun!! Our Saturday playgroup is scheduled for the 17th of this month.

If anyone has any fieldtrip ideas or comments, please pass them along. Do you have any favorite family places or multi-kid friendly events you enjoy? I would love to hear your ideas!!

Thanks-

Shantel

September Meeting - Creative Memories

2005-09-06T09:28:00.000-05:00

Sherri Stocker, from Creative Memories, will be at our meeting SEPTEMBER 21. She asks that you bring two or three photos from the same event or with the same theme to the meeting. For example, two or three different photos from a birthday party, a picnic, an outing at the zoo or maybe one photo of each twin and the third of the twins together - photos that are related that you would put on the same page in an album.

Also, we will be creating our own card with the photos. Sherri will not be doing it for us. She will explain to us how we can make our own card. She said everyone will have a lot of fun.

Once again, please RSVP with me so that Sherri can bring enough material.
Or if you have any questions or concerns, let me know. I'll do the best I can to answer them.

Look forward to hearing from all of you.

Rosanna

05-08-29 KCPOM WEEKLY REMINDER

2005-08-29T17:17:00.000-05:00

Hello-

This week marks a lot of new changes. Some of our little kiddies will be attending full-time school and others will be involved in preschool or daycare for the first time. I hope everyone has cameras ready and don't forget to stuff a couple Kleenex into your pocket. It is tough watching your little baby (or babies) climb on that bus and having to wave good-bye. Fortunately, even with three younger children, the elementary school made it easy for us to volunteer on a weekly basis so we could stay in touch with Holden and Helena, so for all you Kindergarten moms...it's not so bad!!

This week we will be adding and removing "stuff" from our weekly list. SPROUTS summer fieldtrip program is over, but SPROUTS does have a variety of playgroups year around, but you must register and reserve a spot for your family. Also, KAC playgroups will begin this week. No playground playgroups are scheduled, but I think we can squeeze a couple more in during September before it gets too cold. Also, we will be discussing Wednesday fieldtrips for the fall, but nothing is schedules at the moment. Hopefully we can arrange to do something on the opposite weeks of KAC ( which would be the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month).

Lots of fun things are in store this fall...

Here is the list for the week:

August 31st Peanut Butter and Jam Noontime Concert 11:30-1:30

Veteran's Memorial Park 54th St and 6th Ave. Kenosha.

September 1st KAC Playgroup. 11:00-1:00pm 7405-30th Ave. Kenosha.

Appropriate and safe for kids of all ages. Don't forget to bring along a snack or pack a lunch.

Saturday playgroup moms...drop me a line when you have a moment so we can get a Saturday on the schedule for September and October. We can still do a park playdate and maybe transition to in-home playgroups for November-April. Let me know when you have free and what your preference is. Thank you!!

See you all soon-

Shantel

KAC Playgroup

2005-08-29T13:41:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone -

Play group at KAC 7405-30th Ave starts this Thursday 9/1 from 11:00-12:30. The area is reserved for us on the first and third Thursday of the month.

I received a couple of e-mails with questions so I thought I would pass along the information to everyone.

What are the ages?

Any age is welcome, multiples and siblings. If a child doesn't want to participate in an activity that is going on they don't have to. Last year there was an area geared toward infants and other areas blocks, trains, play kitchen, puzzles and an area that was changed by the Early Childhood staff . All of these are located in a large room, perfect for seeing more than 1 child at once.

I have a few more questions about the KAC playgroup. Do we bring the lunches for the kids? Is there a fee?

There isn't a fee and last year we brought lunches which I thought worked well and plan on suggesting we continue. The group pretty much is run by the members who come. So if you ever have a suggestion on what you would like from the playgroup or something that is bothering you I hope you will let us know. Last year we took turns bringing an art project but depending on the majority of the age group we have this year we can see if that works. They do have crayons, markers, scissors and paper to use and other supplies may be available if we request them in advance.

Please let me know if are interested or have any other questions.

Thanks

Roxanne

August Meeting

2005-08-20T21:26:00.000-05:00

~ Speaker, Master Lee Aiello, spoke about self defense:

Be aware - be confident and stay calm
Don't get put in a car!
Ways to defend yourself: use keys, fist, elbow, kick

~ Heather, who is expecting twin girls, attended her first meeting.

~ Upcoming topics:

Oct - Creative Memories Consultant - 7:00 She will show us how to make a card. - BRING 2-3 PICTURES OF THE SAME EVENT.
Nov - Craft Night Back by popular demand, I will bring my crayons to make gift tags. If you are a crafter, please share your ideas.
Dec - Mom's night out & ornament exchange.
Family Holiday party (usually the beginning of Dec.)

~ Picnic:

There will be some organized games for the children.

Food that members are bringing: Granny Smith Apple Spinach Salad, pasta salad, poke cake, veggies, cupcakes, ho ho cake, and condiments. RSVP to Sistina

~ Possible future meeting topics:

Whining, fighting in car - Could Cory speak?
Car seat requirements/safety - I will check with Red Cross

~ KAC play groups - Thurs, Sept 1, 11:00 - 12:30.
Still working on scheduling Sat group & Wed field trip.

~ Yearly membership - Decided to continue $4.00 if interested in joining state, and not have a membership fee at this time.

~ We will reimburse Liz for our website. Thanks, Liz, for our site!!!

July Meeting

2005-07-26T08:30:00.000-05:00

Our monthly meeting took place Wednesday July 20. We had Officer Friendly, Officer Dennis Walsh, as our speaker. It was suggested that it be taped so anyone who couldn't make the meeting could view it at another time. I thought this was a great idea, unfortunately I did not change the speed on my camera and only taped 30 minutes. The good news is Officer Ric Bentz does a presentation on stranger danger, How To Raise a Street Smart Kid, which Officer Walsh thought our group would be really interested in. If all goes well we will have Officer Bentz as a speaker and I will be able to tape it, hopefully without any problems.

This is briefly what Officer Walsh talked about..

He started by saying that the information you give your child is powerful. It isn't what they know that will hurt them, it's what they don't know.

Teach your child their name, phone # and address. Teach them your name so that if they are ever lost the person helping to locate you will know you by more than Mommy or Daddy.

POISONS IN THE HOME - Look around your house, there are many cleaners that in a child's eye look like something good to drink. Example a yellow cleaner with a lemon sliced in half on the label looks like lemonade.

STRANGER DANGER - Who is a stranger? If you ask a child to draw a picture 90% will draw a male, with scars, jagged teeth, knives, guns, very ugly and scary. The person who will try and abduct your child will not look like this.

A good rule to follow is NEVER TALK TO STRANGERS.

Asked "What about a code word?" He said that is not a good idea because the rule should be NEVER TALK TO STRANGERS. If there is a code word that would give the child a reason to stop and listen to the person. Now if your child gets lost you need to help the child identify who will be safe to go to.

Asked "What can you say to a 2 year old versus a 5 year old?" Give them what they can understand. The average child needs to be told something 200 times before they learn it. Scenarios are a good way for a child to learn and they do them at the safety building starting with 5 year olds. It's not that children should have a fear of strangers but be aware that they are always around us, that if the strangers don't bother us there isn't a problem. Statics show 90% of child abductions are done by people who the children know. A good rule to follow is DON'T GO ANYWHERE, WITH ANYONE WITHOUT MOM OR DAD KNOWING!

99% of the time a child will be fine it's the 1% that you need to guard against.

Fire Safety - Have a meeting spot. Preferably somewhere so they don't have to cross a street.

Electrical Boxes - Be aware that they are around and dangerous. Children should not be playing around them. All should have locks if you see one that is broken or without you should call the police department to report it.

If anyone who was at the meeting has anything to add please let me know so I can pass it along.

Thanks,

Roxanne

January 2005 Meeting

2005-01-26T11:12:00.000-06:00

Dues-Starting Sept, 2005 we will have a $10 yearly membership fee.
The optional $4 fee to join WOMOTC (the state organization) will continue.
For the summer picnic, we may charge a nominal fee to cover costs.

Sistina will be treasurer, she is checking into setting up a bank acct and obtaining “non-profit” status.

Roxanne will be the facilitator – THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!
Pam will be the secretary

Playgroups – Roxanne will continue to coordinate the playgroups at KAC and Hospitality Manor.
Sistina will coordinate a monthly playgroup at a public place. She is checking at the library or the museum.
Shantel will coordinate playgroups in member’s homes.
Stacy is checking into a monthly Sat playgroup, possibly at the Kenosha County Building (where we have our monthly meetings).
Easter – Carina will organize the Easter party. It will be Sun. April 10 at 11:00 am at Sistina’s home.
Christmas – Shantel
Summer picnic – possible date – the weekend before Labor Day: Sat Aug 27 or Sun Aug 28. Shantel
Garage Sale – Sistina and Shantel are planning a garage sale for Thurs – Sat April 21, 22, 23. Anyone interested in selling contact Sistina. Discussed charging each seller $5 – (possibly to be put toward summer picnic or another club activity). If interested in buying twins clothing, equipment, etc. mark these days!
Advertising – We need a volunteer __________________ (Carina will if no one else can).
Newsletter – we’d like to have a newsletter section on our web page. Items may include:
Upcoming events – Pam will do
Family updates ______________________
Minutes of meeting – Pam
Treasurer’s report - Sistina
Items for sale/needed ____________________
Parenting info _______________________
Interview with a member - Stacy

Also, having b-days & anniversaries recognized via email was discussed. Once a month, an email listing special occasions for the month could be sent to all members. Volunteer ___________________

PS. Kelly A. has two racecar toddler beds (no mattresses) she would like to give away. If interested, give her a call.

Upcoming meeting topics

Feb – Lori, school psychologist, will answer questions – informal discussion.

Stranger danger/safety – police officer – Lori checking on
Money strategies – financial advisor – Carina
Meditation – Carina
Wills/power of attorney/living will – Sistina
Nutrition – Sistina
Psychologist – Dr. Keller – Sistina
Maintaining your relationship with your spouse – Anyone have contact? – or we could make it a topic of discussion for one meeting – everyone bring ideas.

WOMOTC (state org) – There is a meeting this Sat in Fond du Lac. Roxanne will be attending.

Roxanne, please let me know the hours you spend at the SPROUTS meeting and at the convention (including travel time)

Anyone else who has volunteer hours for Jan, please let me know. Thanks!!!

Pam

December Update

2004-12-06T21:44:00.000-06:00

The Children's Christmas party held Dec. 4 at the Kenosha County Center brought 6 families together with a total of 29 people. The children made necklaces, ornaments, colored pictures, decorated cookies and played pin the nose on Rudolph. Special thanks to Shantel, Sistina and Pam for making this Christmas party a success.

Reminder - Our Christmas Party will take place Dec. 15 at Birchwood Grill 7515-125th Ave. Kenosha. We have reservations for 6:30. Please e-mail Pam Kirsh if you are planning on attending. She is taking care of reservations. kirschmy3sons@earthlink.net Also if you would like to participate bring an ornament - $5.00 limit. We will be having a White elephant ornament exchange. Lots of fun!

Update - I had asked if anyone was interested in getting together for a playgroup once or twice a month at KAC West 7405-30th Ave. I have been told we are able to have the 1st & 3rd Thurs of the month from 10:30- noon as soon as the remodeling is completed. Unfortunately, they don't know exactly when it will be done. Hopefully January (but that is best case scenario.) I will keep you updated.

We are at Hospitality Manor this Friday 12/10 at 10:00 for caroling with the seniors. Bring a friend. The more the merrier. Let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks
Roxanne

October /November Update

2004-11-04T11:03:00.000-06:00

Upcoming Meeting Topics

November 17 ~ Holiday Crafts

Crafty members will share simple craft ideas.

December 15 ~ Night Out

Meet at the Birchwood Grill at 6:30 for a relaxing night out. RSVP to Pam so she can make a reservation.

Play Groups

Now that the weather has turned cool, we are in need of a space for play groups. Groups will meet at Sistina's and Shantel's homes until we locate a space.

Upcoming Family Events

It's time to plan the Holiday Party! Shantel and Karen are checking on locations and dates. As soon as the place and date are determined, all members will receive an email!

Announcements

· I have been the facilitator for two years. I believe variety is important and am asking for a volunteer (or two) to take over this role. I will still do the monthly updates, complete the SPROUTS forms, and be a contact person. Having a new leader will help to keep our group fresh! Thanks, Pam

· Carina has developed a new membership form. We'll use the information to match new members with a big sister & a current member who has a similar situation.

Volunteer Hours

Email Pam with time spent organizing play groups, planning the holiday party, developing the membership form, etc.

August update & book info

2004-08-21T09:00:00.000-05:00

Hi Everybody,

Our August meeting was a social at the Boathouse in Kenosha. We had a great time sharing stories about ourselves and our children and offering parenting tips we'd found helpful. I'd mentioned a book I found extremely helpful, and several people were interested in more info, so here it is: Raising Your Spirited Child: A Guide for Parents Whose Child Is More Intense,Sensitive, Perceptive, Persistent, Energetic, by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka.

Reminder: If you spend time on planning activities for our group or promoting our group, let me know. For the funding we've received, I need to keep track of that. Even if you spend 15 minutes talking to a parent of multiples, let me know. This will be important for future funding. Shantel, I put down an hour for you for making & sending invites for the picnic to those who aren't on email. Lori C., could you let me know how much time you spend developing the "big sister questionnaire"? Karen, I don't have anything recorded for your time putting together the care packages - let me know. Any other activities I've missed, let me know. Thanks!

I will not be at the picnic on the 29th. After the picnic, I need to fill out a form with the question: "Please write a brief description on how the program was received, including any stories that will sustain our efforts in providing support to families with young children." So, after the picnic please email me an answer, so I can complete the necessary paperwork. Also, Roxanne, I know you have Sign-in sheets, could you please have everyone sign in at the picnic. Thanks, again.

One more question, for Liz this time. Instead of a monthly email, could I do a monthly update on our website, in the newsletter section? Is it possible & if so, what do you think?
Pam Kirsch

Meeting Time & Location

2004-08-20T18:00:00.000-05:00

Meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at:
The Kenosha County Center
located at:
the North East corner of intersection of Hwy 50 and Hwy 45
19600 75th St
Bristol, WI 53104 (Map)

For more information please contact:
Pam 262-862-7226 or Carina 262-948-3802.