By Kristin, mom of 3

Back-to-school is always a time of mixed emotion for me. Some relief because we will be back into a routine schedule. But mostly, anxiety because I don’t like change much and my kids are growing up so quickly!

It’s usually pretty stressful, too, with ensuring that my kids are well-equipped with all the supplies they need — not to mention shoes that actually fit after another season of growth!

This year, we got organized way ahead of time and it has made a huge difference.

We are spending these last few days before the first day of school hanging out as a family. Going hiking, biking, looking for cool rocks and exploring together at the park are all part of the game plan.

I’m slowly learning that when I relax and am truly “in the moment” with my kids, rather than rushing around and worrying about what’s next — whether it be what’s for lunch, activities or where we need to be — it is much more rewarding for me and my kids.

Anyone else have suggestions or tips for easing the transition of back-to-school?

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By Kakie Fitzsimmons, Vice President and founding partner, Farmer’s Hat Productions co-author Bur Bur and Friends book series

Obesity in kids is a national epidemic. I was a heavy as a child and know the emotional scars that come from it lasts a lifetime. In elementary school, I remember dreading gym class because when the teacher let the kids pick who would be on their own teams; I was always one of the last two or three. I knew it was because of my weight and this is just one memory of many.

Looking back on my situation, there was a combination of factors that led to this. My mom was a single mom with very limited resources. She had to work and there were times when we were on our own between school and the time she got home. It was easy to spend that time in front of the TV, playing video games and eating to pacify myself or to cure boredom.

A new study recently came out for the first time that tracks childhood obesity by state. That study came from the website of The Trust for America’s Health, which is the organization that published the study. I first read about this in an article titled “Americans are tipping the scales” in the Minneapolis Tribune. . (more…)

By Kakie Fitzsimmons, , Farmer’s Hat Productions co-author Bur Bur and Friends book series

When we founded Farmer’s Hat Productions, we wanted our books and characters to serve as tools/role models that educate kids about healthy lifestyles. Recently some information came acoss my desk involving different kinds of carbohydrates and their purpose. Like anything else, carbohydrates are good when used with a balanced diet.

It got me thinking that there might be a number of people out there that aren’t quite sure what complex carbohydrates are or why they are an important source of energy — especially for children. As a parent who is trying to raise a child as healthily as possible I wanted to share the knowledge. As a result, I pulled some information together to help others navigate the topic of complex carbs.

For the record, let me share. Complex carbs, take longer for our bodies to digest than simple carbohydrates. As a result, when eaten, they hold off your hunger longer and create more effective energy for your body. The best way to benefit from complex carbohydrates are when they are eaten in their natural state. Examples include oatmeal, barley, maize, wheat germ, corn meal, buckwheat, brown rice, legumes and beans, nuts, etc.

When I learned this information it made a difference in the choices I have made for myself and my son. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has some great information you can look up to learn more about these types of foods.

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By Kristin Schumacher, director of Student Leadership & Development at Lewis University and mother of three

My sister and I were recently sharing our parenting stories as we often do. She asked me: “If you had to cite the top 10 things parenting has taught you, what would they be?” It got me thinking and I decided to write it down. I hope some of the information below is as insightful for you as it was for me.

1.) I live by my calendar. Schedules are a GOOD thing! They are concrete and sound.

2.) I’ve learned that teachable moments are actually teaching me. In addition, my kids like me at that particular moment.

3.) Human touch can cure just about anything

4.) Stewardship delegation is so valuable. By teaching up front, I can hold my kids accountable for doing what was asked of them. It also helps me later because I can delegate later with confidence that I: a.) taught them correctly and, b.) they have a clear understanding of what needs to be done.

5.) Battling with kids about clothes or hair really isn’t about clothes or hair at all. It is about them starting to spread their own wings and make choices about themselves. It is about independence.

6.) Comparing things to God, whether you are Christian or not, gives children a sense that there is something bigger than themselves out there.

7.) When you problem solve together, you-as the parent, are miraculously one of the smartest people on earth. (hint: make sure to let them think they came up with the solution, though.)

8.) If I go to bed within an hour of when the kids go to bed, we all function better the next day.

9.) When I center myself and do the opposite of what I feel in a fit of anger/impatience/yelling; I remain in control of the entire situation. So, if I feel anger, I start to somehow laugh. If I feel impatience, I talk calmly and bend down to their level. If I feel like I am about to yell, I whisper.

10.) If my husband and I are not on the same page regarding one issue or another, the kids will sense unstability and take advantage of the situation. Mom & dad vs. kids isn’t always a bad thing. It’s about boundaries and kids will undoubtedly always test them.

Please add your thoughts. What are the things parenting has taught you?

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By JoAnne Pastel, President and founder, Farmer’s Hat Productions co-author Bur Bur and Friends book series

This world is changing so quickly and there are a number of people out there that think of race when they hear the word “diversity.” At Farmer’s Hat Productions, when we think of diversity it’s about more than race. It is about choices, lifestyles and how families blend into healthy functioning communities that work for them. We are hearing more and more from customers/patrons/friends about the positive response to our Bur Bur and Friends book series! Thank you for your interest and support. Our world is changing along with our definitions in society of how we traditionally tend to think about families. Given the ever-increasing differences we see in families today, it is rewarding to receive recognition for our efforts.

Here is one recent example of what we are hearing from others:

Dear JoAnne:

Hello. I saw an article about the Bur Bur books in the St Paul Paper today. I just ordered the 3 book series. I am white and my husband is African-American. We have four children ( 16 yo, 14 yo and twins that are 5) . Thank you for doing this. It is so great. I am so happy to see books in print with kids of all varying skin tones. I am going to give this web site to other friends who have multi racial children. I look forward to watching your business grow.

– Julie England

Thank you, Julie for your feedback!

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As mentioned in a previous post, Bur Bur and Friends hosted a national product launch event at the Mall of America in late July. We continue to get more photos from this event at our offices, and would like to highlight a few more (see below).

It really was a celebration of kids, families and diversity as many joined us at the Mall to explore a variety of activities. The Teddy Bear Band was there to provide musical entertainment. As one young girl exclaimed after one of their sets, “Bur Bur and Friends rocks!”

We invite you to check out our products and our business venture!

Kids enjoyed the fishing and boating experiential displays

Minnesota Timberwolves mascot, Crunch, and Minnesota Twins mascot, TC Bear, with a great Bur Bur friend

Bur Bur and Anna characters helped to entertain the crowd

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By JoAnne Pastel, co-founder, Farmer’s Hat Productions co-author Bur Bur and Friends book series

My son, William, is currently obsessed with pirates. In fact, the other day, he boldly instructed my husband to “Walk the plank!” and “Swab the deck!”

After doing a little research, I realized that his pretend play is helping him to enact and explore different emotions. His pirate antics are usually testing out things like being brave, acting powerful or angry and, once in awhile, what it’s like to have some fear or anticipation about the “evil pirates” lurking just around the corner.

This pretend play is also a key part of my son’s interaction with his preschool friends. It allows them to bond on a unique level and test out different ways of interacting. It’s not always total sharing and happiness, but for William, having a friend join him in playing pirates is helping him learn more about taking turns and other coping skills.

One final thought: A key part of our Bur Bur and Friends book series and products is to celebrate diversity and represent multicultural and biracial families through our products. What strikes me when I watch William and his friends is their ability to play with a diverse group. They truly enjoy diverse activities and friendships. This is what we are striving for: to reach kids at a young age and reflect the diversity of the real world.

Below is a photo of my pirate with friends at a recent St. Paul Saints baseball game. It was “Beard and Mustache Day” and we made the most of it!

Please let us know if you have any comments to share about role playing (what comes after pirates?) and nuturing your kids’ friendships.

Pirate Bur Bur and Friends enjoy a day at the ballpark

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We are excited to share that Bur Bur and Friends' has been getting a lot of media attention since our national product launch in late July! Most recently, coverage includes articles in the Saint Paul Pioneer Press, Minnesota Parent, Toy Directory (TD) Monthly and numerous local TV interviews. The Senior Editor of Parents Magazine also noted the Bur Bur and Friends' book series as a 'must have, must do, must buy'! Subsequently, JoAnne Pastel and Kakie Fitzsimmons, the founders of Farmer's Hat Productions and the Bur Bur and Friends product line, were honored to receive the following e-mail from a professor at the University of Minnesota recognizing the need for their business concept. Thank you, Professor Mazingo for your positive feedback and to all others who are checking out and supporting what Bur Bur and Friends is all about!

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By Kristin Dunlap, mom of 3

When I think of a favorite childhood summertime treat, hands-down, it’s got to be S’mores. Simple to assemble. Messy to eat. And oh so good!

Tonight, Monday, August 20, Bur Bur and Friends are teaming up with Cosi’s Restaurant in Wayzata, Minn., to host a free S’mores night for local kids and families. In honor of the occasion, here are some facts, humor and a couple of S’mores recipes.

S’mores don’t require a campfire anymore — you can toast the marshmallows in the microwave or broil them quickly in the oven and have a “Cook-In.” My kids also like to participate in the assembly process and the opportunity to “build their own.”

Did You Know?
S’mores got their name from frequent requests for “some more” whenever they were made.

HOW GIRLS
MAKE S’MORES
(1) Place Hershey bars on graham crackers.
(2) Toast marshmallows. (3) Place toasted marshmallows on Hershey bars to melt chocolate.

HOW BOYS
MAKE S’MORES
(1) Eat Hershey bars.
(2) Eat marshmallows.
(3) Throw graham crackers at other boys.

PEANUT BUTTER S’MORES
Ingredients
2 pk 1.6oz peanut butter cups, unwrapped
8 graham cracker squares
4 lg Marshmallows

Directions
Place one peanut butter cup on each of 4 crackers. Spear marshmallows on long fork or clean stick, toast over campfire coals or over grill on low heat. Place toasted marshmallow on top of each peanut butter cup. Top each with a graham cracker. Press together and hold for a few seconds to melt chocolate. Enjoy!!

Variations:
- Place banana slices on top of the chocolate bar for an added, healthier treat.
- Spread peanut butter or raspberry preserves on the graham cracker.
- Place strawberry slices on top of the chocolate bar, again, adding flavor and a fruit serving to this treat!

Note: If you broil the marshmallows in the oven it takes approx. 1 minute — watch carefully and turn them periodically to brown them on all sides. If you choose to microwave the marshmallows, it takes about 10-15 seconds on Hi (100%) power.

Bur Bur and Friends was just featured in the "Relationships Diversity" section of Daily Life Saturday, in the August 18th issue of the St. Paul Pioneer Press newspaper. The article, "Mom's write books for multiracial kids," was written by reporter Maja Beckstrom. We encourage visitor's to this site to check out the Bur Bur and Friends book series!

Book Covers and other products from the award winning Bur Bur and Friend's children's book series promote diversity: Bur Bur and Friends is a cast of multiracial kids who help children cultivate their self-esteem and talents by teaching them about sports, outdoor exploration and active play though diverse learning experiences. Bur Bur and Friends characters are based off of real life kids like yours!  Teachers, Toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners and all early readers think they are the best children’s books and our awards back that up!

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If you check out the Bur Bur and Friends Web site, you’ll find some great coloring pages (free to download!).

The coloring pages introduce children to the Bur Bur and Friends characters — and give them a chance to express themselves with color, creativity and imagination.

Take a look at some of the colored pages we’ve received from visitors to the site, as well as from kids who attended our national product launch at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn., in late July.

We’d love to see more artwork from Bur Bur’s growing network of friends! E-mail or mail them our way! We will be posting them periodically on this site.

By Somby, age 7

By Caley, age 2

By Reegan, age 5 1/2

By Siri, age 7

By Kensie, age 3

By Torie, age 4

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The weekend of July 21, Bur Bur and Friends celebrated the national launch of our product line at a special event at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. It was awesome to see all of the kids and families enjoying various activities, including story time, entertainment from the Teddy Bear Band, a fishing clinic and a pitching contest. Kids could also color and get to know the Bur and Friends characters. And there was a special visit from the Minnesota Timberwolves and Twins team mascots. A great time was had by all! Take a look at some of the photos posted below! And be sure to check back on the Farmer's Hat Productions Web site for future events, book signings and appearances for Bur Bur and Friends.

  A diverse crowd gathers for story time. Thanks to Joe Schmidt, former sports anchor from Minneapolis ABC affiliate KSTP-TV for coming out to read the books. Aso doing the readings (not pictured) Jearlyn Steele. Jearlyn is a broadcaster on Minneapolis WCCO-AM talk radio and part of the famous Steele Family Singers.

 The kick-off event included fun and activities for kids of all ages Here we have the famous 'CRUNCH', mascot for the Minnesota Timberwolves joining in the coloring contest.

Story time is a hit!

  Minnow races captivated the youngsters throughout the weekend. Thanks to Minneapolis NBC affiliate Kare-11's Minnesota Bound for facilitating those. Minnesota Bound is a television show that shares stories about people who enjoy the great outdoors in Minnesota.  

Bur Bur and Friends merchandise was available at a prominent Mall of America kiosk

Photos by Tony Nelson, 2007 www.tonynelsonphoto.com Seed Newsvine

By Andy Murray, swim instructor and coach

As a swimming instructor for the past 15 years, I've experienced a lot when it comes to first lessons with young children. It's not just about what's happening IN the pool, but also poolside. Here are some tips for parents that can help make the most of your child's early pool and swimming lessons.  (more…)

By Kakie Fitzsimmons, Vice President and founding partner, Farmer's Hat Productions co-author Bur Bur and Friends book series

I can't think of any parent who has never had power struggles with their kids about food. The challenge lies in how to overcome them in a way that makes it a positive experience. In our crazy world of trying to balance work, social, sports and family life, the last thing we want to do is have an argument with our kids about what they are going to have for dinner.

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By Jodi Nelson, Minnesota Mom of 2

Getting my 4 1/2-year old daughter to sleep has been, well, a nightmare. After reading countless books on sleep, visiting a sleep specialist and tearing my hair out for four years, I finally resorted to my own agenda and approach. We don't give my daughter candy very often and one day, she was begging for a roll of "Smarties." I said fine, you can have two now and if you go to sleep right away, with no crying and no getting out of bed, you can have the rest right away in the morning. She said OK and went right to bed (for the entire night!) and was proud to get the rest of her Smarties in the morning. (more…)