SBC MOPS - Sonora, Ca

Mom's Night Out Tonight!

2011-09-20T13:19:00.000-07:00

Hey Hot Mamas! If you are in need of some time away (and who isn't?), then come to tonight's MNO! We're making yummy smores and having uninterrupted adult conversations! Come to Amber's house at 20248 Gibbs Dr. between 7 and 9. Gibbs is off of Racetrack Road in Sonora. There will be graham crackers and marshmallows so BYOC (bring your own chocolate)!

Playdate Canelled

2011-08-08T10:08:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, we need to cancel the swim play date that was scheduled for August 11th, as the pool is not ready. We hope you have a great week, and we'll see you on the 25th!

Correction

2011-08-04T16:42:00.000-07:00

Please note below that pre-registration is the 25th of August, not the 18th, as it previously stated. Oops! Hope to see you on the correct date! :-D

Pre-registration

2011-07-20T22:35:00.001-07:00

Pre-registration for the new year is coming up on August 25th, from 9 to 11am. Stop by to fill out your form and get $10 off the fee price! Plus, get your goodie bag, and let your kids play for a little while. We are so excited for the new MOPS year! We're already planning our year's meetings, and they're going to be great! Hope to see you at Promiseland at Sierra Bible Church on the 25th!

March 24th MOPS Cancelled

2011-03-22T13:21:00.000-07:00

After checking weather reports and hearing from steering leaders and moms, we have decided to cancel MOPS on Thursday. The weather reports for Wednesday and Thursday say possible snow to 2500 feet. We just want to keep you all safe and our very important childcare workers safe. We are so sorry to cancel, knowing many of you are anxious to get out of the house and have a break!

For now, the MOPS Portraits are still going on this weekend! We have one appointment this weekend. If you need to cancel your appointment, call Carrie as soon as possible at 588-8878 (she does not have internet right now).

Our next meeting is April 14th! See you then!

To Kindergarten and Beyond!

2011-03-21T16:32:00.000-07:00

Are you digging out of the snow? Enjoying a snow day off of school? Maybe you caught up on some letter writing, planned a birthday party, or pulled out the crafts for some rainy day fun!

MOPS is this week on Thursday, March 24! We will be focusing on kindergarten preparedness for our children and ourselves-that first day can be hard on a mom! Linda Griebel, one of our MOPS Mentor Moms and a former teacher, and some MOPS moms will be sharing their ideas and experiences. MOPS publishes a great book with ideas to help prepare your child with some necessary skills prior to kindergarten. We will be giving one away at the meeting!

Our next MOPS meeting is April 14. That is a two week break between meetings due to a fifth week in March. MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month!

Upcoming dates & reminders:

March 26 & 27 & April 2 - MOPS Portrait Fundraiser - Make sure to show up for your portrait session! If you can't remember or need to change appointments, email Carrie at carriemccuneschmidt@gmail.com.

Thursday, April 14 - MOPS Meeting

Friday, April 15 - Twain Harte/CAL-FIRE Firehouse Field Trip! Meet at 10:00am at the Firehouse in Twain Harte. From Highway 108, take Twain Harte Drive into Twain Harte, turn left on Meadow Lane, just before the arch. Firehouse is near the golf course and the park. After the field trip, head to the park for play time and a picnic lunch.

Thursday, April 28 - MOPS Meeting

Don't forget about the MOMOLOGY Challenge!

We look forward to seeing you Thursday!

Spring Portrait Fundraiser!!

2011-03-02T19:45:00.000-08:00

Time to make your appointment for the MOPS Spring Portrait Fundraiser! For $20.00, you get a 15 minute mini session with Wendy Westcamp of Westcamp Photography and a free 8x10 portrait. This is a great opprotunity to have a special family portrait. It makes a great gift for Mother's Day, too.

Appointments are available Saturday, March 26th, Sunday, March 27th, and Saturday, April 2nd. To make an appointment, see Carrie at the next MOPS meeting on March 10 or email her at carriemccuneschmidt@gmail.com or call her at 588-8878!

Do Your Kids Get Along With One Another?

2011-02-22T17:09:00.000-08:00

We all know it is important that our children get along while living in close quarters for 18 years. Despite our best intentions, it can be difficult to encourage positive relationships between our children, espcially when they are whacking each other with light sabers! In our house, my son is quiet, reserved, and can play on his own for hours. My older daughter is VERY social. We determined she could not stop talking for more than 10 seconds and playing on her own is a punishment. When our kids have such different personalities, it can be hard to keep the peace and balance their individual needs!

Our topic at MOPS this Thursday is Social Science: Sibling Relationships. Our guest speaker is Kristi Smith, a mom of 4 children, aged junior high to college. She is also a former MOPS coordinator. We will be covering the importance of fostering healthy sibling relationships. We hope you will be able to make it!

Our MOPS Portrait Fundraiser is March 26th & 27th and April 2nd. Carrie will be at the MOPS meeting ready to schedule your appointment for a 15 minute mini session with Wendy Westcamp! You can just have the kids pictures done or the whole family. The cost is $20.00 and you receive a free 8x10! Wendy has affordable portrait packages available with a CD option, too! Appointments fill up fast so check your calendar before Thursday to know which dates work best.

Just a reminder, if it is snowing in Sonora, MOPS is canceled. Please don't venture out if you are uncomfortable with the weather, no matter how stir crazy you or your kids are!

Upcoming Dates:
March 7th - Soup Exchange, details to be announced
March 10 - MOPS- Three Ring Circus - No lions or tigers though:)
March 24 - MOPS - Kindergarten readiness and other topics on how your children find their place in the grandscape!

MOPS Meeting February 10!

2011-02-07T16:29:00.001-08:00

We have a MOPS meeting this Thursday! It was great to see so many of you at the park in Twain Harte in January! We all appreciate your ability to be flexible and roll with the changes to our schedule!

Our MOPS meeting will be focusing on how to support your partner in his role. We will be joined by a panel of dads who will lend insight and wisdom in supporting one another in marriage and parenting.
A special craft is planned that will double as a Valentine gift for your husband or a significant other in your or your children's lives.

This is also the last meeting to update contact information and have a fresh picture taken for the long awaited picture directory.

Upcoming Dates:
February 24 - MOPS Meeting - Focus on sibling relationships, guest speaker, Kristi Smith, former MOPS mom and mom of 4
March 7 - Mom's Night Out - Soup exchange - more details to follow
March 10 - MOPS Meeting
March and April - MOPS Spring Family Portrait Fundraiser , specific dates and details to be announced soon!

Even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast. Psalm 139:10

Pictures from our Playdate at the Park!

2011-01-28T19:37:00.000-08:00

Create a digital slideshow

MOPS Meeting on January 27 Cancelled! Let's Meet in Twain Harte Instead!

2011-01-23T13:56:00.000-08:00

*****IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT********

MOPS Meeting on January 27th is cancelled due to flood repair work in Promiseland! Sierra Bible Church experienced a major flood in December and it caused quite a bit of damage to their buildings.

We are so sorry to cancel our regular MOPS meeting but we have an alternative. Please come to Twain Harte Eproson Park from 10am-12pm on Thursday, January 28. Bring a lunch or snacks and a picnic blanket. We will bring some lawn games and bubbles! Make sure to dress warm! The park is near the golf course clubhouse and the baseball field. If you come from Sonora, drive up "the Grade" and take a left at the West Entrance - Twain Harte Drive. Follow Twain Harte Drive for a few miles coming into Twain Harte, turn left on Meadow Lane (before the Twain Harte arch) and turn left on Meadow Drive, park is on the right. Weather is expected to be nice - a high in the mid 50's in Twain Harte. If it is raining, playdate is cancelled!

We appreciate your understanding and flexibility! I hope you can plan to join us!!

Alicia Frese and MOPS Steering Team
Even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast. Psalm 139:10

MOPS on Thursday, January 13

2011-01-11T15:28:00.000-08:00

It has been too long since we've all seen each other. MOPS is this Thursday, January 13. Our guest speaker is Holly Britton, a former MOPS mom, a homeschooling mom, mom of teenagers, and an all around great woman. She will be speaking on managing our emotions and helping our kids to manage theirs. In an email to Holly, I wrote "helping our kids manage ours." Whoops!! No issues at my house! I will be paying close attention to all she shares!

If you haven't had your picture taken for the directory, please see me (Alicia) at the registration table. I will take a lovely picture of you but touchups are extra! If you have a new address, phone number or email, please email me the update or fill out the form at the registration table.

Just a reminder on sick kids - keep them home if they have had a fever in the past 24hours, have a green yucky nose or yucky coughs, have thrown up in the past 24 hours, or have a rash (diaper rashes don't count!)

Upcoming Dates:

MOPS - January 27, 9am

MOPS - February 10, 9am

MOPS - February 24, 9am

Moms' night out and Playdates will be announced

Christmas Time at MOPS

2010-12-09T13:26:00.001-08:00

Create your own free digital slideshow

Can Martha Have a Mary Christmas?

2010-12-07T23:26:00.000-08:00

Our next MOPS meeting is on Thursday, December 9! Our topic will be, "Can Martha Have a Mary Christmas." Our special guest speaker will be Anna Jensen, a leader of Community Bible Study in Tuolumne County.

A few reminders:
If you took a gift tag at the last meeting, please remember to bring the item with you on Thursday.
The winners of the MOMOLOGY challenge will be announced, so make sure your table leader has your points up to date. Maybe squeeze in another playdate tomorrow!

Upcoming dates:
Saturday, December 11 - BUNCO at Mary Freer's house, 18229 Golden Oaks Dr., Jamestown. Bunco starts at 7:00pm. This is a fun, fast paced game with prizes. LOTS OF FUN!!!

Thursday, December 16 - MOPS Playdate - Christmas Craft and Storytime, 10am at Sierra Bible Church

****NO MOPS until January 13, 2011****

MOPS Thursday Nov.18

2010-11-16T09:32:00.000-08:00

MOPS is Thursday, November 18 at 9:00am. Our meeting will focus on community outreach and how moms of young children can be a part of impacting those in need. We hope you will be there!

Keep track of those Momology Challenge points! We are coming up on the close of the semester and group and individual prizes will be awarded in December!!

If you missed the Self Defense class, I will have extra copies of the handout our insturctor gave us. It was very informative and a good reminder to be aware of our surroundings!

Upcoming dates:
Saturday, Nov. 20, 11am - MOPS Playdate at Columbia CandleWorks in Columbia. Purchase your candle and have fun dipping with the kids. Weather Permitting - Rain cancels!

Thursday, Nov. 25 - Thanksgiving!! No MOPS!

Thursday, Dec. 9 - MOPS - "Can Martha Have a Mary Christmas" - Special Guest Speaker - Anna Jensen . This is the only MOPS meeting in December

Saturday, Dec. 11 - Mom's Night Out- BUNCO! - Details to be announced!

Thursday , Dec. 16 - MOPS Craft Playdate - SBC - Join us in decorating cookies, making crafts, and having some Christmas fun!

NO MOPS on Thursday, Dec. 23 or 29!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Self Defense MNO - Nov. 5th

2010-11-03T14:15:00.000-07:00

MOPS is having a Mom's Night Out on Friday, November 5th, 7pm! It's a self-defense class at Mountain Storm Jujitsu, 598 S. Washington Street in Sonora.

The cost is a donation of $5.00 for the class but come even if you can't donate. The class is a great opportunity to develop skills to protect ourselves and to enjoy some time away from the kids.

Upcoming Dates:
Nov. 11, Thursday - NO MOPS due to multiple schools being on holiday to celebrate Veteran's Day.
Nov. 18, Thursday, 9am - MOPS meeting
Nov. 20, Saturday, 11 am - Playdate in Columbia - Columbia Candle Works - weather permitting.
Nov. 25, Thursday - NO MOPS - Happy Thanksgiving!!

MOPS Tomorrow!

2010-10-27T12:05:00.000-07:00

MOPS is tomorrow! The theme for our meeting is "Pathway to Peace" and it coincides with the Core section of the Momology book. Kathy, one of our MOPS moms and a steering member, will be our guest speaker. She will be talking about the importance of choosing peace and managing stress in this stage of our lives.

Upcoming Dates
Friday, November 5th - MNO - 7pm, Mountain Storm Jujitsu. Chantilli will be teaching us self defense. She is passionate about women knowing how to defend themselves.
The cost? A suggested donation of $5 but don't stay away if you can't swing the $5!

Thursday, Nov. 11 - Veteran's Day Holiday ***NO MOPS****

Thursday, Nov. 18 - Regular MOPS Meeting

Saturday, Nov. 20th - Playdate -11am, Columbia Candle Works. This is outdoors and contingent upon the weather. It's kind of on your own, nothing set up, or formal about it. You can purchase whatever shape or size candle you want and dip it into the different colored waxes. Bring a picnic lunch for after the candle dipping. If it's raining we'll have to cancel.

Fun at MOPS!

2010-10-14T15:07:00.000-07:00

These are actually pictures from our first MOPS meeting of this year--from our 'Speed Meeting' rounds and life map activity.

We just fininshed an awesome meeting with Kathleen Ronald--challenging us to evict the negative thinking from our own lives, as well as our children's, and helping us to realize how powerful our words really are... and MAN, was it GOOD! Find her information here http://www.speaktacular.com/ --it would be well worth your time to check her out. Thanks, Kathy Kleinert for sharing your lovely friend with us today!

There are lots of fun playdates and events happening this month--check in with your table leaders and here on the blog for updates.

MOPS Meeting October 14!

2010-10-12T13:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, MOPS meeting THIS THURSDAY, October 14 at 9:00am. MOPS meets the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month (except November and December). There was a teeny tiny bit of confusion because of the extra week in October.

We have a special treat for you all at the next meeting. Kathleen Ronald, a professional motivational speaker, will join us. She will be speaking on the five ways to evict negative thinking. We are so excited to have her with us. This is definitely one meeting you don't want to miss.

Also, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Wear pink to October 14th's meeting to honor breast cancer survivors and encourage awareness. You will also earn an extra point in the MOMOLOGY challenge!

Upcoming MOPS Dates:
October 15 - Mom's Night Out - Campfire and stargazing at Camie Bellah's home at 7:00pm - directions will be available at Thursday's meeting
October 21 - MOPS Playdate - 10:15am at Cover's. For $6.00 per person, you get a tour of Cover's, a ride on the train, cookie, and juice. If you don't want to do the tour, the maze is free and the train will be running for $3.00 per person.
October 24 - SBC Trunk or Treat from 4pm-6pm. Bring the kids anytime between 4-6pm for family friendly fun. MOPS will also be having a food booth fundraiser. Hot dogs, chili and nachos! We need help running the booth, so if you have 30 minutes to help serve chili and nachos, see Carrie on Thursday to sign.
October 31 - Calvary Chapel of Sonora will be hosting a Harvest Party from 4-8pm as an alternative to Halloween. No scary costumes!!

MNO at High Country Sports Arean

2010-09-24T14:57:00.001-07:00

MOPS Mom's Night Out THIS SATURDAY! We are going rollerskating at High Country Sports Arena on Saturday, September 25 from 7pm - 9pm. The cost is $5.00 per person and includes your skate rental. High Country Sports Arena is located at 14934 Camage, in the Sierra Pacific Industrial Park near the TUD and PG&E offices. Bring a friend! If you possible, please RSVP/ send a reply to my email to let me know who is planning to come!

A few other MOPS Happenings:
September 30 (Thursday) - MOPPETS childcare training for moms willing to be on a rotating list to help in the nurseries during MOPS.
October 14 - MOPS - Guest Speaker Kathleen Ronald - Professional inspirational speaker
October 16 - Bling Extravaganza - Dinner and Fashion Show at SBC - call SBC for ticket info
October 24 - Trunk or Treat at Sierra Bible from 4pm-6pm - FREE!!
October 28 - MOPS

MOPS Meeting September 23

2010-09-21T21:09:00.000-07:00

Next MOPS meeting is Thursday, September 23. Over the next three meetings, we will be focusing on how our personalities, life experiences, emotions, passions, and potential influence how we parent and who we are as a person. We will learn how to become moms who are resilient in time of change and challenge.

Details of our first MNO will be announced at the meeting.

Plan on joining us. We look forward to seeing you there!

MOPS Starts Thursday, September 9!!

2010-09-07T21:24:00.000-07:00

School has started, the days are getting shorter, my kids have started their Christmas lists, it must be time for MOPS! FINALLY! Are you ready to spend some time with friends, enjoy a breakfast without sharing it, and flex your crafty muscles(even if they atrophied over the summer)?

MOPS begins Thursday September 9 at 9:00am. We meet at Sierra Bible Church in Sonora. You can check in your children beginning at 8:45am. Children ages two to five attend classes in Promiseland. The nurseries for children birth to two years old are in the main building, to the right of the entrance. There is a new computer check in system for the MOPPETS (children) program, so please be patient.

So what do we have in store for this year? The opportunity to develop your parenting skills, understand your role as a mother, laugh and cry with fellow moms, and build a friendship or two. And breakfast. The joy of the little things.

Please join us. We would love to see you there!

2010-2011 MOPS Pre-registration

2010-08-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

MOPS is coming!

Pre-registration is Thursday, August 26 from 9am to 11am at SBC Promiseland. Come anytime to fill out registration forms and update MOPPETS info. There will be water fun and treats for the kids. Moms who are new to MOPS are welcome to pre-register!

Total dues for the year are $73.95 or $48.95 for half the year. Scholarships are available.

Also, Mentor Mom Mary is headed to Africa for a missions trip. While many of her needs have been met, deodorant is needed to distribute among the people. If you are out and about pick up an extra deodorant(for men or women) and bring it to Pre-registration!

We have an exciting and fun year planned to encourage you as a mom, wife, and woman. We look forward to seeing you on August 26! If you can't make it to preregistration, you can register at the first MOPS meeting on Thursday, September 9 at Sierra Bible Church!

If you have questions, call Alicia at 928-5502

MNO at Junction Starbucks on August 13

2010-08-09T11:43:00.000-07:00

Ready for an iced coffee? Join your MOPS friends on August 13 at 7:00pm at the Junction Starbucks for some coffee and fellowship with friends. Hope you can join us!

MNO at Black Oak Lanes on Friday, July 9th

2010-07-05T14:15:00.000-07:00

Do you like to bowl? Friday, July 9th is the MOPS Mom's Night Out at Black Oak Lanes. Meet near the Bowling Counter/Cashier at 6:30pm. Remember, you can park in the garage and take the direct basement entrance to family friendly floor in order to bypass the casino floor. Approx. cost is $5.00 plus shoe rental (around $3.00) per person. Great opportunity to get out and enjoy some time with friends and away from the kids.

This event is open to MOPS moms and friends, so call a friend to bring. We hope to see you there!

Pinecrest Playdate on Tuesday, June 29

2010-06-24T16:11:00.000-07:00

Come on up to Pinecrest to enjoy storytime, pottery crafts, and swimming with MOPS. Storytime is at 10:00 am at the Pinecrest Amphitheater. The funny, entertaining songs and stories will have your children laughing and singing along. There is no cost unless you want to give a donation. After storytime, Out of Hand hosts a pottery craft for kids. Your child can create and paint a pottery project for a small fee. My nine year old looks forward to doing a project each summer. You can spend the rest of the day swimming, playing in the sand, and getting a tan. Look for a MOPS sign near the Amphitheater. Alicia F. will have a spot at the beach where you can drop off your stuff before storytime or meet up after story and crafts! Bring your towels, swimsuits, and lunch. Hope to see you there!

Last meeting of our year this Thursday!

2010-05-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

We hope you can join us for our end of the year party this Thursday, May 27!

We will have tons of fun with lots of activities, prizes and celebrating together the graduating moms and our MOPS year! We'll also be doing a little survey of how you liked your MOPS experience this year, so come ready to give us your input on ways to make it even better. We'll have our summer activities schedule to handout so we can stay connected over summer. Lots going on... don't miss it!!!

Coming Attractions

2010-05-16T16:10:00.000-07:00

Join your MOPS mama friends for a night out with a chick flick!

We'll be heading to the Sonora movie theatre this Friday night (May 21) for the 7p.m.-ish showing (showtime listed for this weekend was 7:20pm, check back here or in paper for actual time) of Letters to Juliet (rated PG). It's sure to be a good time!

Only one more MOPS meeting--May 27th--until we break for summer! Be sure it's on your calendar! You won't want to miss all the fun give-aways, prizes and information on our summer get-togethers. You can also pre-register for next year for a discounted rate!

We'll be seeing you!

This Wednesday!!! Playdate at the Fire Station!

2010-05-03T22:14:00.000-07:00

Meet at 10am at the Fire Station in Downtown Sonora
(located at 201 S. Shephard St., just 2 blocks east of the main street)
After the tour, walk down to Legends for ice cream or lunch and more together time!

This is a free tour for everyone!

Last year, this was a great hit for our kids! The Firemen even got all dressed in their gear as part of the tour so that all the kids could see what they looked like and not to be scared of them (and that there weren't really aliens in those suits!). They also all posed with us for a big group photo (which, of course, is buried somewhere in my computer so that it will never again be found!)... so fun for everyone!!! Hope you will join us!

2010-04-22T13:28:00.001-07:00

Great meeting, ladies!! I loved all the great food and can't wait to put the recipe book together. I won't be finalizing the recipe book for another week or so, so if you forgot to email me your recipe (or weren't able to make it but would still like to contribute a yummy dish your family enjoys), please type it out and email it to me at mrskmiller@hotmail.com by May 1.

I was also very inspired by Ruth's talk about the AROMA of the home and how we as mom's really can control how welcoming or stinky that is! The acrostic that Ruth provided was a really powerful way to remember the elements to make our homes a wonderful place to be...

A-Affection
R-Respect
O-Order
M-Merriment
A-Affirmation

I hope you were challenged in at least one area to make your house 'smell' a little better today for your loved ones. I know I was... I need to have a little bit more FUN in this house!!!!

2010-04-18T16:58:00.000-07:00

It's time for our Annual Recipe Exchange!

Thursday, April 22nd - During our regular MOPS Meeting

Come hungry and ready to stack your plate with new ideas!

Connect with your table leader to find out what portion of a meal (appetizer, side, main dish, dessert, etc.) you signed up for (or need to) and bring that dish, along with the recipe typed out. Also, please email your recipe to Kirsten at mrskmiller@hotmail.com. She will be taking pictures of the actual dish at the meeting and then compile all of the recipes into a recipe book you can use at home!

We will also be hearing from Mentor Mom, Ruth Pedro, about how as moms, we control the 'Atmospheric Pressure' of the home and how the aroma of our attitudes and words can really affect those around us. Are you stinky and don't even know it or are you a welcoming, beautiful perfume? What do you want to be?

MOPS Meeting this week!

2010-03-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

Now that the sun is out... we can celebrate Spring!

Hopefully your kiddos are all getting the sick bugs out and we'll see you at our MOPS meeting this week! We'll be focusing on the Crazy Love of our amazing God... as Easter is just around the corner. Our mentor mom, Camie Bellah, will be sharing with us, and we'll be doing a craft and watching a little video as well. If you'd like a sneak peak, check out www.crazylovebook.com. Francis Chan, the author of Crazy Love, was my pastor and friend and he has incredible insight on God's Word and a wonderful gift of communicating it to people.

We'll see you this Thursday!!!

p.s. we don't have MOPS again until April 22nd because of Easter break...

This Weeks MOPS Mama fun!!!

2010-03-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

MOPS Meeting--"Flight Manual"
THURSDAY, March 11, 9am-11am
This meeting is dealing with something we all want to instill in our kids but sometimes struggle with the best way to go about doing it... discipline, respecting authority, and how we might be helping and/or hindering our children by our own interactions with others (i.e. school teachers). Come and learn from a panel of wise women who have navigated this territory before us and start to develop your 'how to' manual with some new ideas!

Pedicure Party Mom's Night Out:
FRIDAY, MARCH 12, 7pm-9pm
We had to cancel our last attempt at this one due to bad weather, but know that is one of the favorites so we plugged it back into the schedule. Join us at Echo Howell's home with 'naked' toes that are ready to be pampered and painted! Echo lives at 20217 Stanislaus Ct. in Sonora--basically where Racetrack Rd. dead ends into Jamestown Rd in the new housing subdivision (one block toward Jamestown). You can call her at 533-5022 for more specifics or with any questions!

Also, make sure you've scheduled a time for our Spring Portrait Fundraiser! Pictures are starting this weekend, and continuing into next-call Alicia now to get yours booked at 928-5502!

ACRO Gymnastics Playdate!

2010-03-02T07:04:00.000-08:00

Beat the rain and join us for our March Playdate fun at ACRO Sports!
Wed, March 3 from 11am-noon
$3 per child for a guided warm up, tour around the equipment and then free play!

This is also a great and inexpensive way to experience a fun activity offered for pre-school and school-aged children in our community!

ACRO gym is located on Seaborn Ave. on HWY 108 just east of Standard Rd. (between Standard and Jenness).

Check out their blog @ American Sports ACRO & Gymnastics: "American Sports ACRO & Gymnastics"

Another Great Opportunity to Grow Together & In Christ!

2010-02-26T15:34:00.000-08:00

Friday, March 5 - Saturday, March 6

Follow this link for all the details:

www.sierrabible.com/ministries/womensministries! Hope to see you there!

It's BUNKO Mom's Night Out!!!

2010-02-15T22:06:00.000-08:00

Join us for another fun MNO playing BUNKO!

Date: This Friday, Feb 19

Time: 7pm

Where: Kirsten's Home at 50 Columbia Way, Sonora (follow link for google map/directions: 50 columbia way, sonora, ca - Google Maps)

Bring: $3 cash and a snack to share

Please call Echo at 533-5022 for any questions or Kirsten at 533-3767 for directions!

Welcome to our new 'followers'!

2010-02-15T18:08:00.000-08:00

Welcome Spring, Holly, and Alicia! You can be one, too!

If you choose to be a 'follower' of the SBC MOPS blog, you can choose a setting that will allow you to receive updates automatically with each new post. This way, you'll be in the know for all things MOPS! We aren't doing snail mail reminders anymore to cut costs, so this truly is the only way to not miss a beat!

Also, I'll be trying to incorporate some fun stuff, like getting to know MOPS moms and fun information (stuff that would normally be in a newsletter--also not being produced this year, at first due to me being too overwhelmed with my crazy life and now due to saving on copying costs). If you have anything you think would be great for other moms to know, feel free to email me at mrskmiller@hotmail.com and I'll post it!

Become a 'follower' and check back often!

Spring Portraits are coming!

2010-02-15T18:00:00.000-08:00

Don't miss out on great pictures for a great cause! It's a photo fundraiser for MOPS with professional photographer and MOPS mom Wendy Westcamp. Sessions are filling up fast--schedule yours now! (if you want to see the image bigger to read the details and get contact info, just click on it!).

MOPS Meeting--Feb 11

2010-02-04T21:31:00.000-08:00

Fanning Your Flames!

Join us in your comfy clothes (or PJ's) for a great movie and fun time with the girls at MOPS this Thursday, February 11th! We'll have our brunch and watch the movie "Fireproof"--bring lawn chairs, blankets, whatever you'd like to make yourself cozy... and bring your tissue!!!

We'll have a raffle ticket to win fun prizes for every mom who walks through the door before 9:00am! We are starting the movie at 9:05am sharp--so don't be late this week! =)

Keep posted here for details regarding our Feb MNO Bunko party and other upcoming MOPS fun!

Mommy & Me Playdate

2010-01-31T21:02:00.000-08:00

It's February so let's get into the Valentine's spirit and have a fun playdate!
Join us for a Mommy & Me craft and fun time together!

Wednesday, Feb 3
10am-12pm
Chantal's House: 22312 Ponderosa Dr. in Twain Harte (not Tuolumne); call for directions at 586-1862

First Meeting of the New Year...

2010-01-09T13:51:00.000-08:00

We'll be having our first meeting of the year this Thursday, January 14th! The topic is "Lost in Space: Personal Passions and Goals"--a topic that moms often struggle with. Christy Maxson will be our guest speaker and we have some fun and meaningful activities planned for you. We hope to see you all there!

Also, you might want to put Friday, January 22nd on your calendar... at 7pm, we'll be having a pedicure party at Holly's home!! We'll post directions/mapquest link as we get closer, just wanted to get it on your schedule for now.

Lastly, another date for the calendar is Saturday, Jan 23--we'll be having a family 'skate-date' at the High Country Sports Arena (off of Camage Rd.) from 11am-1pm. More details to follow on this as well. =)

Looking forward to the New Year!

2009-12-26T17:08:00.000-08:00

It feels like forever since we've been together, MOPS mamas! With our cancelled meeting in December due to delayed school schedules and bad weather and no 2nd meetings for the Christmas holidays... January 14th (our next meeting) seems like a while to go still!!! Good thing we have a couple of playdates in January to bring us together, as well as a MNO Pedicure Party! Watch for details coming soon! =)

Thanks for all of your contributions to our MOPS Adopt-a-Family effort! The Leadership Team met the week before Christmas to compile the donated gifts (as well as food, gift certificates and cards) and deliver them to 5 of our MOPS families. It was a pleasure to act as your ambassadors of good will and play 'Santa'--making Christmas a little less stressful and a lot more fun for a few families that needed an extra blessing this holiday. What a wonderful community of support and love we are all a part of!

Join us for our December Events!

2009-11-19T06:54:00.001-08:00

click on image to see it bigger!

http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Sonora&state=ca&address=538+snell

Mom's Night Out

2009-11-02T07:35:00.001-08:00

This was our Bunko crowd--had a great time and lots of winning! Thanks for playing!

Looking forward to our next MNO this Friday night at Starbucks in the Junction at 7pm. Come hang out and bring a friend!

Also, join us for our Cover's Apple Ranch playdate this Wednesday, Nov 4 from 10am-noon. Train rides, hay maze, animals, lots of fun for the kids and mommy hang out time! =)

We only have ONE MOPS meeting this month and next-- don't miss them-- Nov 12 and Dec 10!

Join us for our October Events!

2009-10-05T10:07:00.001-07:00

(Click on this to see it bigger)

This week's festivities!

2009-09-15T19:18:00.001-07:00

2009-2010 Pre-Registration Event--Aug 27

2009-08-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

MOPS is BACK!
This year we’ll be exploring life
Together on Planet Mom
…truly an ‘out of this world’ experience!

Pre-registration event on August 27
9:00am-11:00am
@ SBC in front of Promiseland

Come anytime with the kiddos for water fun and treats while you fill out reg forms and reconnect with friends!

Get $10 off your annual dues if you pay for the whole year at this event! Normally $25 each semester & $23.95 MI Fee-- but at this event, total is $63.95. Scholarships are available.

For more information, contact: Aly at 533-2334 or Spring at 928-1378

Playdate at Brentwood Lake

2009-07-30T12:08:00.000-07:00

A good time had by all--thanks for coming out! Wendy took a bunch of pictures of the Lake fun--here's the link to check them out!
http://westcampphotography.smugmug.com/gallery/9078300_pkkxC#604597505_RQqkV

Hoping to see you at the next event... Swim Party at Kathy's house! (see previous post for details)

Alyson had her baby!

2009-07-17T19:57:00.000-07:00

Hello MOPS Mamas!

We want to send our congrats to Alyson Jefferson and her hubby Tyler--their new baby boy, Jacob Cameron, was born last Thursday! Mom and baby are at home and doing great, and would love to hear from any of you (of course, understanding if she's not answering the phone or emails right away!).

We also want to invite any and all of our SBC MOPS moms who would like to join us in welcoming this new little one into the world at a baby shower for Aly and Baby Jacob. The date is Sunday, July 26 at 2pm. Please copy and paste the url below to view the evite for details and please RSVP if you plan to attend.

http://www.evite.com/app/publicUrl/XDYTDEKMSDWYKTDNBKDY/alyjeffersonbabyshower

Summer Playdate in Twain Harte

2009-07-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

TUESDAY, JULY 28 at 11:00 a.m.- ?

We hope you'll join us for another fun day at the lake... Brentwood Lake in Twain Harte. Click on the link below for the Google map for it, and you can find driving directions from there, if needed.

Bring a picnic lunch, lots of water, sandtoys, sunscreen and beach gear. Brentwood is a great and easy lake for kids--it has swings, grass, a hose, picnic tables, and a roped in swimming area (not super deep this year, so it's great for our littel ones). You need a membership card to open the gate to enter the lake--so you'll have to get one of our group members attention to let you in!

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=brentwood%20lake%20twain%20harte&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl

Summer Activities Schedule

2009-06-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

MOPS 08-09 Slideshow Pictures

2009-05-31T20:59:00.000-07:00

For any one interested, I have posted the slideshow that was going during the last MOPS meeting to my personal shutterfly website at the url below. You can look at all the pictures and if you want any for yourself, you can order straight from their site (I think they offer freebies if you open a new free acct). The pictures from all the events all year are on there, you just have to wade through all 220!!!

Happy Summer!

Kirsten

http://ourmillerfam.shutterfly.com/

Play Date this Thursday

2009-05-18T19:52:00.001-07:00

MOPS March Happenings!

2009-03-11T10:34:00.000-07:00

Click on the flyer to see it bigger!

We've got BINGO

We've got PICTURES

We've got MEETINGS

We've got SCRAPBOOKING...

GOT MOPS?

Our Spring Fundraiser

2009-02-17T11:13:00.001-08:00

Click on the flyer to see it bigger. You can also check out Wendy's website at www.westcampphotography.com.

We'll be introducing the fundraiser at our next MOPS meeting, passing out flyers for you all to help us post around town, and divy-ing out tickets for you to sell (to yourself and others!).

Save the date (and your duckets) for these sure to be great pictures!

MOPS Meeting Cancelled Today!!!

2009-02-12T06:51:00.000-08:00

I know I'm bummed about it, but there are many of you that are either stuck in your driveways or waiting with your older kids for school to start... so we are cancelling our MOPS meeting today due to the weather. Take advantage of this extra time in your day--to sleep, enjoy a cup of coffee or eat all that food that you had intended to bring to MOPS! =)

We'll see you in a couple of weeks!

Special Events for Women and Parents!!!

2009-02-11T20:43:00.000-08:00

SBC is hosting a couple great events in March--the Women's Retreat and a simulcast of Revolutionary Parenting (one of the resources Becky Howell recommended to us at the beginning of the year!). Follow the link at the bottom of the post for more information!

http://www.sierrabible.com/index.php/special-events

Next MOPS Mom's Night--Feb 6th!

2009-01-26T09:02:00.000-08:00

*To read the fine print, click on the flyer and it'll pop up bigger for you!

Back to MOPS

2009-01-05T20:40:00.000-08:00

Join us as we continue the 'Adventure' into our new semester this Thursday, January 8th! Our topic of 'Walking the Tightrope' seems like an appropriate title for dealing with our finances--especially in this economy! We look forward to seeing you after the holiday break and hearing what financial wisdom we can gleam from MOPS mom Kathy Kleinert and MOPS Mentor Ruth Pedro.

Just a side note--however much we want to see you and however much you'd like a MOPS break, please do not bring sniffles or coughs (or worse) into our little MOPPETS rooms. Icky kid sickness flies around this time of year and we need to do our best to keep our kiddos and our MOPPET workers healthy! Thanks!

MOPS '08 Christmas

2009-01-05T20:37:00.001-08:00

January Mom's Night Out

2009-01-05T16:20:00.000-08:00

Membership information

2009-01-05T16:06:00.001-08:00

We work diligently to keep the cost of MOPS as low as possible while still providing a quality program with exceptional childcare. SBC generously provides for all our childcare needs and costs associated with the MOPPETS program, so we are able to keep our fees minimal at $25.00 a semester ($50.00 annually). This money helps cover meetings costs such as craft supplies, gifts, and MOPPETS worker appreciation gifts. Take advantage of the pre-registration event in August of each year to receive a $10 discount if you pay upfront for the whole year!

Your annual MOPS International Membership registration fee of $23.95 goes directly to MOPS International and will provide you with applicable ideas and encouragement through a 1 year subscription of the bi-monthly MOMSense Magazine, weekly Mom-E-Mails, and a variety of MOPS Publications, including our theme book for the year.

DO NOT let finances keep you from attending our MOPS group. Partial and full scholarships are available, as well as payment plans. Please speak with Joy, our Finance Coordinator, and be assured that all needs are kept confidential. You can find her at the front desk of each MOPS meeting or reach her by email at jotterson@sonnet.com.

What about Childcare--MOPPETS!!!

2009-01-05T15:56:00.000-08:00

MOPS is for Moms, while MOPPETS is for kids!

During MOPS meetings, children from birth to five years old are cared for in the MOPPETS program, which is run by Sierra Bible Children's Ministries (free of charge!). Children enjoy a safe, clean and stimulating environment while moms enjoy the company of other mothers. MOPPET caregivers are fully screened by SBC and have a heart for kids. There is also a Family Registration Form that all moms must complete, along with taking a photo with your child(ren), in order to assure safe check in and out of the children’s facilities. All ages will be shown love by these wonderful caregivers, and children ages 2-5 enjoy age appropriate lessons, crafts, snacks and songs as well. Unfortunately, we cannot offer any accomodations for older children at this time.

Tips to remember:

Drop-off time is from 8:45 to 9:05 a.m.
Pick-up time is no later than 11:15 a.m.
Mark your children’s belongings with their names, i.e. bottles, bags, etc.
Inform the caregiver of any special needs for your child when signing in.
Refrain from bringing in sick children. Rashes, fevers, runny noses that are not clear, and diarrhea are just a few no-no’s. Just remember the ‘golden rule’—if you don’t want another mom to bring her sick kid, don’t bring yours either—no matter how bad you’d like a break!
Leave all personal toys at home.
If your child is in the infant or walker class (under 2), please bring a bag for him/her equipped with diapers, wipes, a labeled sippy cup or bottle, and any other comforting items such as a favorite toy, blanket, or pacifier.
Your child will remain in the same class throughout the entire MOPS year, regardless of when their birthday falls (i.e. if they start in the 2 year old class, they will remain there throughout the year, even if they turn 3 in January) unless the MOPPETS Coordinator requests a change to better accommodate the child or the classroom environment.

MOPS provides thank you and encouragement gifts throughout the year (from your semester dues) to each MOPPET worker, as well as an appreciation luncheon at the end of the year. Most of them are volunteers and just love to be with kids and support our sanity as moms! It would be great if you could take initiative throughout the year to show your appreciation to the teachers in your child/ren’s classroom as well.

When and where does SBC MOPS meet?

2009-01-05T14:49:00.000-08:00

MOPS meets twice a month on the 2nd & 4th Thursdays mornings from 9:00am-11:00am (check out the side column for remaining meeting dates for the year).

Our Fall Session runs from September through December, and our Spring Session runs from January through May.

We meet at Sierra Bible Church, which is located at 15171 Tuolumne Road in Sonora, right across the street from Standard Ball Park. The church phone number is (209) 532-1381 and their website is www.sierrabible.com. Moms meet in the Family Life Center (FLC) which is the big building at the back of campus where church meets, children ages 2-5 are in Promisland classrooms, and babies and toddlers are in the nursery (next to FLC).

Come join us!

What happens at MOPS?

2009-01-05T14:48:00.000-08:00

Finally there is a play group for moms! We focus on YOUR needs, while your children are being cared for by our loving caregivers. Our meetings are designed to provide you with opportunities to relax, make new friends, enjoy adult conversation, learn a new skill or craft, hear guest speakers, and be involved in group discussions on topics of interest to Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS).

We also are continuing our popular Playdates and Mom’s Night Out (MNO) activities this year! Playdates are designed to get us and our kids connected and out and about together for fun in the community. MNO's are to not only give us moms a much needed break from the kiddos (however, childcare will not be provided) but also provide some opportunities to develop deeper relationships with other moms. These events offer a great opportunity to widen your MOPS network by meeting moms who are not at your table during regular meetings and give us a carved out time to 'do life together'!

What is MOPS?

2009-01-05T14:36:00.000-08:00

MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers and is an international organization that exists to encourage, equip, and help women become the best moms that they can be! Women who are pregnant or have young children (newborn through Kindergarten) are all invited to join MOPS!

MOPS is caring through:

A program designed for all mothers of preschoolers (conception through Kindergarten) and is coordinated by the mothers themselves.
An open, caring atmosphere where specific needs of today's preschool mothers are met.

MOPS is sharing in:

Small discussion groups where women interact, encourage and learn from one another.
A comfortable setting for social and spiritual enrichment for mother and child(ren).
The enjoyment of completing a craft with the opportunity for creative expression, a sense of accomplishment and deepening friendships.

MOPS is preparing through:

Building a sense of identity and personal worth.
Instruction relating to womanhood, childrearing, marriage and building a home based on biblical principles.
Social and creative opportunities for preschool children

OUT-OF-HAND Pottery Mom's Night Out November 14th

2008-11-11T07:19:00.000-08:00

Get your Creativity going- at this mom's night out November 14th, 6pm-8pm; at Out of Hand Pottery on South Washington Street in downtown Sonora.

Whether you want to make an original Christmas Gift or can only paint my numbers this is an event for you. $5 dollars is needed to reserve your spot, you will have the money go toward your purchase at Out Of Hand. Please have your money at November 13th meeting, Alyson Macon will be collecting it. We have the whole place to ourselves!! So come, enjoy, and get a break from the kiddos this Friday Night.

Call Alyson Macon for additional questions: 586-6503

Operation Christmas Child

2008-10-17T16:28:00.001-07:00

Remember to bring your item(s) to put in your table's Operation Christmas Child box at our Nov. 13th meeting! Contact your table leader if you don't remember (or lost the paper) with the ideas on what you can contribute (or you can check out the official website at http://www.samaritianspurse.net). Feel free to bring your own box to add to the mix... could be a cool way to get your kids in the 'giving' spirit (if you do this, please remember to bring $7 with the box to cover shipping costs--thanks!).

October Mom's Night Out!

2008-10-11T20:58:00.001-07:00

Pictures from Adventure Day at Cover's

2008-10-02T21:45:00.001-07:00

We had a great time with all the moms and kiddos that turned out for a fun-filled adventure at Cover's. If any of you want to share your pictures from the day on here, email them to me at mrskmiller@hotmail.com and I'll do my to add them to the slide show! Also, if there are any images you would like for yourself, I can send them to you directly through email, just let me know! -Kirsten

Our 1st MOPS Playdate of the Year!

2008-09-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

Our 1st Mom's Night Out of 08-09!

2008-09-16T15:40:00.000-07:00

Pictures from MOPS 1st meeting!

2008-09-16T15:08:00.001-07:00

1st MOPS Meeting of 2008-2009

2008-09-04T18:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for coming out for Pre-Registration to kick off our new year--we had a great turn out with around 40 moms! We expect to see more of you on day 1--Sept 11th... it's going to be a great 1st meeting! Don't miss our 'favorite things' give away and prizes, lots of games and fun 'adventures of motherhood' stories!

More Summer Fun!

2008-07-25T14:47:00.000-07:00

Beat the summer heat at MOPS next playdate

2008-07-09T13:54:00.000-07:00

2008-06-13T12:38:00.000-07:00

Click on this to get a closer image to read the small writing!

Garage Sale

2008-05-29T09:41:00.000-07:00

Garage Sale

--UPDATE: We made about $350 towards our Convention budget last weekend! Thanks so much to everyone who donated their items for us to sell. Also, special thanks to Mary Freer, Alyson Jefferson, Joy Otterson, Keely Pfeiffer, Cynde Lee, Kirsten Miller, Lisa Crawford and Jackie Bearden for taking time out of their day to help us 'work' the sale to make it a success!

Spring Fundraiser!

2008-02-05T08:37:00.000-08:00

Sign-ups for appointment times will be at all of our MOPS meetings in February and March, or call Kirsten at 533-3767 to schedule a session!

The cost is $20 for your session and 8x10 of your choice (MOPS keeps $19!!!). If everyone participates and sells one session to a friend, we have the potential to make over $2000 for our MOPS group!

Our photographer, Diane Conn, is one of our MOPS moms! Check out her website at www.ConnPhotography.com! Thanks, Diane!

Scrapbooking Event!

2008-01-29T12:51:00.000-08:00

MEETING Rescheduled!

2008-01-17T13:16:00.000-08:00

Our January 28th meeting--'Spicing Up Your Marriage'--has been rescheduled for March 27, because we heard from so many of you that you were really looking forward to discussing this topic! So... keep offering your suggestions and questions!

Below are some of the questions you submitted. Some are included in the comments section of this post, and I believe there are 4 other past posts of questions as well. You can comment anonymously, so lets help each other out!!!

Question #1

2008-01-17T13:15:00.000-08:00

I have 3 small children, self-employed, husband only home 3 times a week, house to clean and I'm EXHAUSTED! How do I find time (want to find time) to make sex NOT feel like one more chore?!?!?

Question #2

2008-01-17T13:14:00.001-08:00

Any creative ideas on free and cheap date nights?

Question #3

2008-01-17T13:13:00.001-08:00

For those of us who don't have family in the area, 'getting away' for even a night may not be a reality, and babysitting is expensive for dates. Does anyone have any great ideas on working around this?

Question #4

2008-01-17T13:13:00.000-08:00

If you work with your spouse, too, how do you keep your marriage alive? It's all about the work! How do you keep the balance?

Question #5

2008-01-17T13:12:00.000-08:00

Frankly my libido must've come out when I delivered baby. And with all the duties a new mom has, it's so tiring and I'm drained, yet he feels neglected and pushed away...what did you do to spice things up or get into the mood? Can you offer your suggestions...I don't want to be a cold hearted partner but loving mom, but at the end of the day it seems like it'd be another chore...sounds bad, I know.

Santa Train & MOPS Christmas Celebration

2007-12-10T09:27:00.000-08:00

Make a slideshow - it's easy!

Our Blogspot!

2007-09-28T13:31:00.000-07:00

We are hoping that this blog will aid us in staying connected to each other and the happenings at MOPS. Please let us know if this is useful to you and any suggestions you may have for improvement. Also, we'll probably be posting pictures from meetings or events, so please let us know if you do not want your face or name to be shown and we will honor your request for privacy. (Your private information--last name, address, phone, etc.--will not be posted).

Please feel free to email me at mrskmiller@hotmail.com... I'd love to hear from you!
Because Better Moms Make a Better World,
Kirsten, Your SBC MOPS Co-Coordinator