It’s that time of year when I debrief on how my “Word” worked its way through the journey of my life in the current time. Last year, I selected the 2023 word, Energy. I thought about how I wanted to spend my energy. I’ve noticed that as each year passes, I have less...
Giving Back After the Holidays
The holidays are a great time to donate to local charities, and charities volunteer at non-profit organizations. Volunteering benefits everyone involved and contributes to the holiday spirit. But when the decorations come down and the holidays are over, charities and...
Parenting is Hard, but Navigating What Parenting Advice to Follow is Even Harder
The holiday season is coming with endless family gatherings. All your relatives will surely be giving unsolicited parenting advice. Don’t get me wrong, we all know that when someone gives you advice, it comes from the best place in their heart. However, sometimes your...
Bringing the Summer Fun Inside on Rainy Days
Summer is the time to be outside and enjoy the beautiful sunshine. That is until stormy days roll in and keep everyone cooped up inside. I like a rainy day once in a while. The noise is soothing while I sit on the couch and read a book or watch a movie. However, it...
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILY BONDING THIS SUMMER
The sun is shining and kids are getting out of school to enjoy a well-deserved break filled with fun and joy. Some of my favorite memories from my childhood were made during the summer. Whether it was spending all day at the beach or riding my bike everywhere with my...
Book Basket for Kids
When you’re looking for new books to read, how do you search for them? Do you talk with your friends and ask them what their favorites are and what they’re currently reading? Do you find influencers you trust and have similar tastes to yours and see what they...
Fun Activities to Do as a Family on New Year’s Eve
Can you believe the end of the year is just around the corner? Sheesh! It feels like the years keep getting faster and faster. Well, don’t let the passing of time stress you out because we’re going to check out some ultra-fun activities to do as a family on New Year’s...
All Reading is Beneficial Reading!
Now that Halloween is in the books for 2022, it’s time to start thinking about turkeys, holiday shopping, and the important contributions of Native Americans. November is Native American Heritage Month, which emphasizes celebrating diverse cultures and is a perfect...
5 Ways Your Child can Gift Others this Holiday Season
We’re now over halfway through December, and the distant ringing of jingle bells is drawing closer every day (can you hear it?). By now, you’ve probably started collecting presents for family members and friends, and your closet is bursting with hidden treasures in...
5 Ways to Get Your Family in the Giving Spirit
Can you think of the last time you actively sought out ways to give back to people in need? If you’re anything like me, that question may have you wracking your brain for the last time you held the door open or cast a stranger a smile. In truth, the world in which we...
Shine Bright This Holiday Season!
Special Launch OfferFREE SHIPPING on every order! BUY NOW! As you enjoy the holiday season with your young loved ones, give them the chance to explore the holidays and cultures celebrated by their peers. Alongside the diverse heroes of Cardinal Rule Press’s...
‘Tis the Season! Tips on Raising Children to be Kind and Generous
“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the greatest intention..” ~ Khalil Gibran As we wrap up this crazy and unexpected 2020 year, it’s worth reminding ourselves that this holiday season is an opportunity to exemplify forgiveness and gentle attitudes...
Double Down on Gratitude Before the Holidays Roll In
It’s the holidays. They’re hovering outside your door just itching to get in! While I’m as excited to get the merriment started as the next gal, I’m not interested in falling down a hole of holiday overdrive. Our best defense? Practicing gratitude! *Grab Maria's handy...
Holiday Shopping-Get Organized NOW
Maria goes live every other week, taking turns between her author Facebook page and her private Empowering Kids with Character Facebook group.On Sept 26th, Maria shared a holiday gift list template. You can watch the video here. What will this gift shopping list do...
Cheese Pizza Day
Maria goes live every other week, taking turns between her author Facebook page and her private Empowering Kids with Character Facebook group. On September 5th, Maria shared how you can take time to celebrate the ordinary, like it being Cheese Pizza Day! You can watch...
Roadtrips!
Maria goes live every other week, taking turns between her author Facebook page and her private Empowering Kids with Character Facebook group. On July 18th, Maria talked about road trips! You can watch the video here. Maria and her children are planning a road trip to...
Candy Cane Blessings – Random Act of Generosity!
Hi everyone! It’s Mandy (mother of 2 – a 5-year-old boy and a 1-year-old girl). I am blogging on Be the Difference, recapping some valuable tips from Empowering Kids With Character – The Show! December’s theme is about generosity and Maria opened up the month, on the 6th, with a very cute and fun idea! […]
New Thanksgiving Tradition!
Hi everyone! It’s Mandy (mother of 2 – a 5-year-old boy and a 1-year-old girl). I am blogging on Be the Difference, recapping some valuable tips from Empowering Kids With Character – The Show!
Top Gifts for Families
Idea 1: Games - Pop! The Pig - Jenga - Boom Blast Stix -...
What No One Tells You About Goal Setting
First the holidays, then before you know it we will be ringing in the new year! Let's talk about the top three things people forget to mention about goals. This way, we can all make things happen for us in 2019! #1 New Year's Resolutions don't work Start by planning...
Creative Stocking Stuffer Ideas
#1 Customized Photobook Fun idea to remind us of stories or special events in our lives. #2 Chatbooks.com photobook Don't have time to make photo books? Connect your phone and the photo books make themselves. #3 Sticker Activity Books This entertaining little...
Smart Strategies to Prepare for 2019
I know what you are thinking, but Maria, I have to get through the holidays before I think about the New Year! Right? Wrong. We are in the last 60 days of the year. It is still possible to live the life you want in these sixty days. To enjoy your family during this...





















