Habersham MOPS

A Friday Favorite

2011-10-14T15:50:00.000-04:00

If your week was anything like mine, there were days you were over it. Over the dishes and the laundry and the sticky floors and the neverending requests. Hopefully you came to MOPS today and got a little refreshed and were reminded that you are never alone on this motherhood quest.

Many of you know that we recently found out we are expecting again and that I have had a hard time adjusting to the idea that I have to do the pregnancy thing again (welcome back all day nausea) and that when I'm finally finished, I'll have four little people who depend on me for everything. Yikes.

So this blog I'm linking us to is for me. And for you. For the times you're done. And for all the times you keep on going.

Happy Friday! Do something fun this weekend. Practice the Husband Project. Refuse to fold the clothes. Eat whatever you want. I ate cream cheese icing out of the container a little while ago. And read this.

http://thegypsymama.com/2011/10/for-the-days-when-you-want-to-quit-motherhood/

Love to you all.
~Lindsey

Perfectly Imperfect

2011-09-07T14:48:00.000-04:00

This Wednesday

embrace all the imperfections

that make you

the perfect mom for your kids!

And send us an email if you'd like to feature a story

for this weekly post

or anytime.

Be bold.

Better moms make a better world.

Source: simplydesigning.blogspot.com via Lissi on Pinterest

And dirty ovens mean you cooked dinner instead of going to McDonald's.

But that would have been alright too!

Dynamite Moms

2011-09-01T08:29:00.003-04:00

Dynamite Moms from Habersham MOPS on Vimeo.
.

WELCOME TO MOPS 2011-2012

This is how we started our first meeting! All the lyrics are original, and were written by the steering team. Considering that none of us can sing, and we only practiced about 2 times it turned out cute. At least we got a few laughs! See what you are missing if you haven't attended a meeting before?

We hope to see you at our next meeting!!!

Picture Us Imperfectly

2011-08-31T15:46:00.002-04:00

thanks to this anonymous guest blogger for reminding us all that it's okay to have imperfect moments! We're linking up with Capturing Motherhood to embrace our mommy moments!

A couple of weeks ago, my toddler found a snack size of potato chips in the bottom of the pantry and insisted on eating them in place of a sensible breakfast. Of course, the toddler won out. I like to think it was because I prefer to choose my battles, but it probably had more to do with how much easier it was to open that then make him oatmeal or pancakes. The next day I realized the half eaten bag of potato chips were still sitting on the kitchen counter. I tossed them in the trash.

Fastforward a few hours and my toddler is happily marching around munching on some little snack. I wonder what he must have found that has made him so happy. Upon following him back to the kitchen, I find that not only has he found the half eaten bag of surely now stale chips, but has begun snacking on them. The worse part is I didn't stop him from going back for seconds. So, go ahead and picture a fellow MOPS mom imperfectly...because that would be completely accurate.

Picture Us Imperfectly

2011-08-24T14:58:00.001-04:00

What have you done imperfectly this week?

I had to rewash an entire load of laundry because

when I tried to fold it, I realized it smelled.

That's what happens when you forget to put the wash into the dryer

for two days and it's August.

I also have over-committed myself.

Again.

For some reason I thought staying home meant I could do more.

I know, I know.

You can stop laughing now.

And I told my daughter a couple of days ago that

I was glad

she'd gone back to school.

Of course now I'm realizing that wasn't true.

MOPS begins on Friday morning.

If you forget to swap your laundry

can't find your sink for all the dishes

send your kids to school in mismatched socks

wish you could go to the bathroom alone

you'll probably fit in.

Picture Us Imperfectly

2011-08-17T15:56:00.002-04:00

Thanks to everyone who joined us for a great morning of Popsicles in the Park yesterday. We had a fantastic turnout, new registrations, and lovely weather. In fact, yesterday morning made me realize fall is almost here.

And I have so much to do!

How about you? Are you swamped with to-do lists and final moments of summer and school supply circulars and extracurricular activities?

If you're like me, you want to get it all done, and get it all done perfectly. Unfortunately, that's not going to happen.

Because we're NOT perfect. But thank goodness we know who is. And God promises everyone, but I think especially harried moms, that

He did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7

This year in MOPS we hope to embrace the idea that we may not be perfect moms, but we can be moms who are bold, sensible, and loving. And we can embrace one another, not in spite of our imperfections, but because of them.

So, I'd like to invite those of you who are bloggin' mamas, or those of you who just want to 'fess up your own moments of mom-perfection to join me each Wednesday with a Picture Me Imperfectly post.

We'll be linking up with Hill over at Capturing Motherhood. And I'd love to get some guest posters for this MOPS blog, so send me an email at lindsbrac@gmail. com or post a comment if you're interested.

Today you can link over to my randomness and get to know me a bit better.

Can't wait to see you all at our first MOPS meeting, August 26, 9:30 a.m. Mark your calendars, your i-Phone, put it on a sticky note on your dashboard--but be there!

How's Your MomSense?

2011-08-10T14:25:00.000-04:00

I don't know about you, but my "momsense" was on the fritz today. My one year old thinks she's too big for her booster, my six year old won't even entertain the idea of switching schools, and my five year old would make James Dobson cry.

Sound familiar?

If so, maybe you need what I've found. A group of moms in my community who get it. Who've been there. Who are still wading through laundry and sippy cups and terrible twos that linger until elementary school.

That's MOPS. Mothers of Preschoolers. Which just means most of us are still changing diapers on our way out the door to the Little League game. Some of us are new to motherhood, others are brave enough to admit that even after ten years they don't have it figured out. Some of us work from home or outside it. For some of us, home is all the work we can handle.

We're real. Real moms with real kids and really messy houses. Real moms with real kids who cause us real problems. Real moms who come together to make sense of all this MomSense so we have the energy to play another round.

If MOPS sounds like it's for you, or even if it doesn't, I encourage you to play the game of Chance and give us a turn. We're registering old members and new for fall semester 2011 and we'd love to have you on our team. Join us for one of the following dates and we'll help you play the hand God's dealt you.

Tuesday, August 16th, Popsicles in the Park, Demorest City Park, 9 a.m.
Monday, August 22nd, Drive Up Registration at Cornelia Wal-Mart, 9-11 a.m.
Friday, August 26th, First MOPS Meeting for 2011-2012, 9:30 a.m., Bethlehem Baptist Church

For more information contact habershammops@gmail.com or Like us on Facebook. Hope to see you there!

Mommy Rhapsody

2010-08-23T11:15:00.000-04:00

Untitled from Habersham MOPS on Vimeo.

Here is the encore presentation of our Mommy Rhapsody! We had a lot of fun getting ready for this!

Only 1 more day!

2010-08-19T14:54:00.001-04:00

THE WAIT IS ALMOST OVER!

TOMORROW IS THE DAY!

1st MOPS MEETING OF THE YEAR!

Prepare yourselves to go back in time...School days...College days...think subjects, think science, think art...Hanging out with friends...COME SEE WHAT WE HAVE IN STORE FOR YOU!!

Like I said before THIS IS A MEETING YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS! The steering team has been very busy planning something great to kick off our year.
Just a few reminders for you: DON'T SKIP THIS PART

1. We will start promptly at 9:30 am (until 11:30), and need you in your seats by then. Please come early enough to get your little ones settled into their rooms, so you can be on time. As always we will have our on time drawing!

2. We will be taking pictures for our directory tomorrow, so bring your best smiles. If you can plan a little extra time to get that done first thing that would be great. If you don't get your picture taken before the meeting make sure to get it done before you leave.
3. We are trying to get our home school group started tomorrow as well. If we have just 6-8 moms then they would only have to cover the kids class only 1-2 times each semester. It would be awesome to have these moms join our group. If you home school (or know of anyone) then come tomorrow and we will get you set up.
4. Please bring your forms for Moppets and your child's shot records.
5. We are expecting a lot of new moms, which means more children in our Moppets program. This also means that we will need more sweet, loving volunteers for our children. If you know of someone who would be good at this ministry please let us know ASAP. We don't want to overwhelm the workers that we have taking care of our precious little ones, and crowd the classes. We really would love more Moppets workers. Without them MOPS would not be possible for us!

6. Ask someone to come to the meeting with you. We would love to reach out to more mothers. REMEMBER: LET NO MOM MOTHER ALONE!

7. Come hungry! We will have a big breakfast waiting for you.

Looking forward to fun and fellowship with everyone!

ONLY 2 more days left!

2010-08-18T16:55:00.000-04:00

WAAHOO! The wait is almost over...only 2 more days until the start of our MOPS year! I hope that you are as excited as we are. Like I said before THIS IS A MEETING YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS! The steering team has been very busy planning something great to kick off our year. Just a few reminders for you:

New to MOPS? Send an email to habershammops@gmail.com to request more information and registration forms. Register before Friday so we can add your MOPPETS to their appropriate class.

1. We will start promptly at 9:30 am (until 11:30), and need you in your seats by then. Please come early enough to get your little ones settled into their rooms, so you can be on time. As always we will have our on time drawing!

2. If you have not yet registered please let me know that you are coming on Fri.. habershammops@gmail.com. We need to have tables and nametags organized, and this will make things easier. Also if you have invited someone let me know that too, so we can make sure they feel just as welcomed.

3. Please bring your forms for Moppets and your child's shot records.

4. Ask someone to come to the meeting with you. We would love to reach out to more mothers.

5. Come hungry! We will have a big breakfast waiting for you.

Looking forward to fun and fellowship with everyone!

National Convention

2010-08-12T23:27:00.000-04:00

Last weekend some of the steering team traveled to Orlando for the National MOPS convention. It was a long drive, but well worth it! What an inspiring, spiritual weekend. It was filled with lots of meetings, prayer, laughter, music, food, and banana grams games! This was a view from the side of the hotel we were on. This is the Key West area. We had a balcony room overlooking this...that is right...this is all inside! Really cool!

These guys were at the other end of the hotel. There were several more, and they did a little show for us on Sat. night feeding them. In this picture they are waiting for some chicken to be thrown at them.

Here are your fearless leaders. We learned a lot this weekend, and are so very excited about this upcoming MOPS year. There are so many great things planned that you won't want to miss out on!


This was part of our fun...Camera games! You start the timer and then have to run around and end up back in front of the camera in time for a picture. We did this several times and ended up with some funny pictures.

Summer Dates

2010-07-15T00:38:00.000-04:00

Finally we are getting a chance to update the blog...sorry it has been a while! There are some fun events coming up that would be great for the kids and you to attend.

July 16 - Movie Night at Pitts Park (Cloudy with a chance of meatballs) - starts at dusk.
** We would love to have as many MOPS moms there as possible to help spread the word
about our wonderful group. If you can make it try to wear one of your MOPS shirts.

July 23 - Play date at Pitts park 9:30-11:30 - this will also be a registration drive!
We will have give-a-ways to those that register that morning. Also you will
be able to register at the early bird discount rate if you do so on this
day!!! Don't miss out!

August 6 - Movie night at Pitts park

August 13 - Play date at Pitts park 9:30-11:30 - this will be our last registration
drive before our first meeting! Come out and see us!

More that just fun

2010-06-16T00:21:00.000-04:00

The steering team meet for a couple of days to plan out this coming years MOPS meetings. We worked very hard and stayed up way past our bedtimes planning, planning, planning. We are so excited about what is coming up and sharing it with all our wonderful mom friends.

Of course we did take a break to play for a while and recharge the batteries so the old thinkers could brainstorm terrific ideas.

Join us August 20th for our first meeting of the new year! We can't wait to see you there!!!

Spring Retreat 2010

2010-03-30T16:11:00.000-04:00

Melissa Wood, Cheryl Dover, Chris Thurmond,MaryLynn Tinsley, Julie Wilkenson, Jennifer Kyle, Erin Williams, Kimberly Chosewood, Candi Coffman, Tiffany Murdock,Carolyn Wilson

Here is the crew that was able to go with us. Several people were able to participate in the scavenger hunt. Unfortunately there were many people who had things come up at the last minute, and couldn't make it. We had a great time with many laughs and lots of good food! The dates are already set for next spring, so mark you calendars now!

This was our view from the lodge we stayed it...it was a perfect place to be with friends!

A few of us went hiking at Amicalola Falls on our way home. It is such a beautiful place, and a great way to end the retreat!

2010 is here!

2010-01-20T14:35:00.000-05:00

Hope your 2010 is off to a great start. Although our first MOPS meeting of the new year was cancelled due to inclement weather, we still have many exciting events planned! Please join us at our next meeting and find a way to get involved in MOPS.

Moms Night Out

2009-11-10T15:16:00.000-05:00

Don't forget about our MNO this Thursday at 6:30 at El Campesino. Hope to see you there!

Fall is in the Air!

2009-10-20T10:09:00.001-04:00

Fall is here for sure. Hope you are enjoying these chilly temperatures and the changing of seasons. Our MOPS year is underway, and we are excited to have a number of new moms in our group this year as well as welcome back many familiar faces!

Here is a link to a super easy Halloween craft that your little ones are sure to love. Here's another craft; this one will hopefully keep your older children busy.

Meeting Dates for 09-10 Announced

2009-05-28T11:00:00.000-04:00

Just click on this image to see a larger version of our 09-10 meeting dates and summer activities. Dates are subject to change. Watch your email for more information!

Sweet Re-Treat

2009-03-23T23:22:00.000-04:00

Our annual Spring Retreat was this past weekend at Camp Pinnacle in Clayton, and I know I speak for all the moms there when I say it was a blast! We had so much fun being together and getting to know one another.

We began with a scavenger hunt around Clayton. Not only did each team have to gather items, but they also had to capture images of certain places and things taking place. What a fun way to bond with our fellow MOPS!

One team was victorious, but gladly shared their victory with another team that was a close second...lol! We all enjoyed a wonderful meal at Mama G's. The staff was incredible to us, and the food was fabulous!

Finally, we headed back to the cabin at Camp Pinnacle for a devotion, sharing, laughing, games, snacks and lots of fun. Most of us stayed up till the wee hours of the morning...but, most managed to crawl out of their bunks for some yummy Chick-fil-A bright and early on Saturday morning.

You can see more pics from our retreat here.

Don't forget to be getting your clothes together for our annual clothes swap on Fri. April 3. See you there!

Love is in the Air

2009-02-12T15:12:00.001-05:00

Hopefully, your fingers aren't glued together from helping your little ones assemble valentine's. We enjoyed a "love"-ly meeting last week. Carol Johnson, MOPPETs coordinator, shared a wonderful testimony. We had some great time in our discussion groups. Have you been finding ways to "show" love this week with your actions? I think I speak for everyone, when I say craft time was a lot of fun! If you need help finding a photo to grace those lovely frames, there are several on our photo site.

Several of you picked up fundraising kits for Personalized Easter Buckets. We'll again have the info available at the next meeting. Orders and money are due at our meeting on Mar. 6 & buckets must be picked up at our meeting on Mar. 20! Many thanks to those of you that have agreed to take on the challenge and help raise funds for our organization.

Continue working on your childcare/family arrangements for Fri, Mar. 20 & Sat, Mar. 21. We want every mom to join us on our retreat to Camp Pinnacle. The cost is only $20 plus the cost of your dinner Friday evening. Your registration covers lodging and breakfast. An itenirary will be announced soon. We'll be taking registration fees at our next meeting.

Speaking of the next meeting...don't forget to bring your wedding albums to share (or another family album). We'll continue with our LOVE theme. Please also be brainstorming an organizational tip you'd like to share with your fellow moms. Bring those to Laura or email her at laurag11@hotmail.com by Mar. 1st!

Sweating to (or with) the Oldies...

2009-01-26T21:17:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I felt like I was sweatin' with the oldies last Friday at MOPS. Marva Griffith of Jazzercise in Clarkesville was kind enough to join us for a demonstration. Here are a few pictures!

Oops...wrong way, Grace!

Go, Melissa & Laura!

It was so good to be back with you moms. December 5th seems so long ago! Again, please mark your calendars for our upcoming retreat at Camp Pinnacle on Fri, Mar. 20 - Sat, Mar. 21. The Steering Team will be gathering to plan more details, which will be announced very soon. In the meantime, put it on your calendar, talk to your hubby and arrange childcare, if necessary. You won't want to miss this!

Take care!

Dear Santa

2008-12-15T21:11:00.000-05:00

Hope all you moms are enjoying your holidays. Looking forward to joining together for fellowship again at our first meeting of the Spring Semester on Friday, January 23. Also, remember our Moms Night Out on Thursday, January 10 at El Sombrero's at 6. In the meantime, here's a funny email I received:

Dear Santa,
I've been a good mom all year. I've fed, cleaned and cuddled my children on demand, visited the pediatrician's office more than my own doctor, sold sixty-two cases of candy bars to raise money to plant a shade tree on the school playground. I was hoping you could spread my list out -- over several Christmases.

Since I had to write this letter with my son's red crayon, on the back of a receipt in the laundry room between cycles; and who knows when I'll find any more free time in the next 18 years, so now - -
*** Here are my Christmas wishes ***

* I'd like a pair of legs that don't ache (-in any color, except purple, which I already have) and arms that don't hurt or flap in the breeze; but are strong enough to pull my screaming child out of the candy aisle in the grocery store.

* I'd also like a waist, since I lost mine somewhere in the seventh month of my last pregnancy.

* If you're hauling big-ticket items this year, I'd like fingerprint resistant windows and a radio that only plays adult music; a television that doesn't broadcast any programs containing talking animals; and a refrigerator with a secret compartment behind the crisper where I can hide to talk on the phone.

* On the practical side, I could use a talking doll that says, 'Yes, Mommy' to boost my parental confidence, along with two kids who don't fight and three pairs of jeans that will zip all the way up without the use of power tools.

* I could also use a recording of Tibetan monks chanting, 'Don't eat in the living room' and 'Take your hands off your brother,' because my voice seems to be just out of my children's hearing range and can only be heard by the dog.

* If it's too late to find any of these products, I'd settle for enough time to brush my teeth and comb my hair in the same morning, or the luxury of eating food warmer than room temperature without it being served in a Styrofoam container.

*If you don't mind, I could also use a few miracles to brighten the holiday season. Would it be too much trouble to declare ketchup a vegetable? It will clear my conscience immensely.

*It would be helpful if you could coerce my children to help around the house without demanding payment as if they were the bosses of an organized crime family.

Well, the buzzer on the dryer is ringing, and my son saw my feet under the laundry room door. I think he wants his red crayon back. Have a safe trip Santa, and remember to leave your wet boots by the door, and come in and dry off, so you don't catch cold. Help yourself to cookies on the table, but don't eat too many or leave crumbs on the carpet.

Yours always with love and appreciation,
a Mom

Adventures in Mothering underway

2008-09-24T20:23:00.000-04:00

Our year of discussing the Adventures in Mothering is officially underway. I hope those of you that joined us for our first meeting would agree it was a great time. We enjoyed catching up after a busy summer. The group had an opportunity to meet the 2008-09 steering team, make some nifty bags and hear about the year ahead.

Another 12 moms joined us Monday night for MOMS Night OUT at Gusben's in Cornelia on Tuesday evening. It was a great time. Our next event is a Family Night Out at Zanzo's in Clarkesville on Monday, Oct. 27 at 6 pm.

Don't forget our next meeting Friday, Oct. 10 at 9:30...bring your decorated nametags!

If you missed the first meeting, you are still welcome to join us! We look forward to adding new moms throughout the year. Phone numbers and email are listed to the right.

Wednesday Whirl - Issue 1

2008-09-16T20:57:00.000-04:00

Welcome to your first edition of the Wednesday Whirl. This electronic newsletter will get you geared up for each MOPS meeting. Our first meeting is this Friday, Sept. 19! Hope to see you there!

Hi, MOPS MOMS! Here's your Wednesday Whirl.

Wednesday Whirlyour e-Mail connection to Habersham MOPS

Don’t Forget our first meeting this Friday, Sept. 19 @ 9:30 AM

Arrive early to get your MOPPET settled in and get your name in our on-time prize drawing. As always, a tasty breakfast awaits.

Go Ahead & Mark your calendar for Monday, Sept. 23. Moms Night Out…Listen For Details at our meeting!

Your meeting checklist:
New/Updated MOPS Registration FormMoppets Registration Form & current Shot RecordSemester/ Yearly Fees (if not already paid)Your Smiling Face…pics will be taken for our new directory!Be Early! We have lots of catching up to do!

First Meeting of the Year - Sept. 19

2008-09-08T09:25:00.000-04:00

Our first meeting of the 2008-2009 year is just around the corner. We hope you can join us on Friday, Sept. 19 at Bethlehem Baptist Church for fun, food and fellowship as Mothers of Preschoolers get together to encourage one another. Our meetings begin at 9:30, so arrive early to drop off your MOPPET and enjoy a tasty breakfast.

Registration forms for MOPS and MOPPETS are available under the Forms heading to the right. We'll see you there!

Wrapping Up Summer

2008-07-23T15:56:00.000-04:00

I know it sounds strange, but we are wrapping up our summer MOPS activities. We hope you have enjoyed the playdates and other events that were planned. Many of you joined us at Monkey Joe's last week, and we look forward to doing it again soon. In the meantime, please keep in mind the following activities:

FIP - This week @ Pitts Park @ 9:30 am
I know it's been hot, ladies, but we'll have water for all and snacks for the little ones. Please share this information with new moms who might be interested in joining MOPS.

FIP - August 15 @ Pitts Park @ 9:30 am
This one is after school starts back and will be our final FIP before our meetings kick off in September. Don't miss it. Bring your friends!

Unfortunately, the MOPS pool party has been cancelled. We were unable to reserve the Clarkesville Pool during non-public swim hours, as originally planned. We were unable to find an affordable alternative location. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Again, share information about MOPS with your friends and neighbors. We welcome new moms and are always looking for more MOPPETS workers. Thanks. See you Friday!

FIP, Monkey Joe's & Blueberry Picking

2008-07-09T15:28:00.000-04:00

Hey, Moms! Hope you and your family are enjoying a wonderful summer.

FIP – this Friday, July 11 – Location Change – Pitts Park @ 9:30 a.m.
Don’t forget to join us this Friday for F.I.P. We’ll be meeting once again at Pitts Park in Clarkesville. Our two final FIPs will be July 25 & August 15, both at Pitts Park. In an effort to beat the heat, we’re starting our gatherings at 9:30 a.m. See you there!

Play date @ Monkey Joes on Tues, July 15 in Gainesville @ 10 a.m.
Playdate @ Monkey Joe’s in Gainesville on Tuesday, July 15 from 10 a.m. until they shut down or your kids do. Monkey Joe’s is located at 2283 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. They are giving Habersham MOPS a group rate pricing of $5 per child. They have a concession stand with food and other goodies. Your children will need to wear socks. Hope to see you there!
Please RSVP by Wednesday 7/9 @ 5 pm to missy@bramlettconsulting.com or call 706-778-0927. We'd like to get an idea of how many to expect. For more information about Monkey Joe’s, visit their website. If you are interested, a carpool/caravan will leave from Level Grove Baptist Church at 9:30 a.m. on the 15th. Our thanks to Missy Bramlett for coordinating the details of our blueberry outing!

Blueberry Picking @ Sidney Rolands Blueberries on Saturday, July 19 @ 9 a.m.
You and your family are invited to join us at Sidney Rolands Blueberries for a fun morning of blueberry picking. This is a great year for the berries. Bring a container to put your berries in (sand buckets work great for the kids). Also plan to bring a hat and/or sunscreen, a blanket and refreshments. Berries are $4 a gallon, if you can get that many in your bucket. We’ll plan to eat at the river behind The Roland House or on blankets in the blueberry patch if the river is too much for the little ones. There are a few shaded areas.

Directions: From Clarkesville, take 115 toward Cleveland. At four-way stop with Hwy 105 (Cannon Bridge Rd) turn RIGHT towards Helen. Go 2 miles, turn LEFT onto Riverbend. This turns into Smith Loop Road. After about 1.5 miles look for wooden sign on LEFT that says Sidney Rolands Blueberries, turn RIGHT onto Sidney Roland Rd (dirt road). Go down the road until you see Blueberry sign, turn RIGHT. Follow drive down, turn LEFT between blueberry rows, LEFT over little bridge, park in the grass and see all the blueberries!!!!
We’re trying to get a feel for how many families will be attending. If you plan to join the fun, please RSVP to Melissa Maughon at mepama@applebank.net Our thanks to Melissa Maughon for coordinating the details for our blueberry outing!

The Latest on our Summer Events

2008-06-26T16:17:00.000-04:00

Our summer calendar is now viewable via the link posted on the top right of our page. Here's some more information about our next event:

Playdate at Spray Grounds in Laurel Park (Gainesville) – Wed. July 2

Cost is $1.00 per child. The park opens at 10:00 am.

What to bring: Sunscreen, Plenty of drinks, lunch or snack, sunglasses, baby stroller with top, hats for everyone, water toys and towels.

For those who have not been to the park. There is no shade! The spray ground is fenced in, and there are benches and picnic tables inside the fenced area. Also, this is not a pool, so children do not need floaties. Water shoes are highly recommended, sometimes the ground may feel hot to tender feet. First persons there please hold a table or two for us. Next to the spray ground is a playground that sometimes has shade, and there are two covered picnic areas that may be used if not rented by another group.

Directions: From Clarkesville, Follow Hwy 115 W to Cleveland. Once in Cleveland, take Hwy 129 South toward Gainesville. Approx. 17.5 miles from Cleveland square to the turn off. Look for the brown park sign "Laurel Park" with arrow pointing left. You will turn left onto New Bridge Church Road. It looks like you are turning into the church parking lot. Turn onto the road, then 2nd right onto Old Cleveland Road. Follow signs to Laurel Park. (New Bridge Church is only half mile past the first bridge you drive over.)

FIP - Time & Location Change

2008-06-25T10:30:00.001-04:00

Friday in the Park for this week June 27 has been changed to Mt. Airy Park at 9:30 a.m. This is a great park right off of Dicks Hill Parkway between the Town Hall and the Cornelia City Park.

We've elected to cancel our Cleveland Park date since Cleveland has a brand new MOPS group of their own. Please join us on Friday in Mt. Airy!

Details on Upcoming Summer Events

2008-06-20T23:45:00.000-04:00

Playdate @ Unicoi Park on Wednesday, June 25 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Recreation and swimming at Unicoi. There are a lot of steps going down to the lake. So pack and carry as little as possible. There is an unofficial drop-off area near the handicapped parking that can be used to carry things to the sandy beach, and you can bring a stroller that way. Afterwards, you will then need to move your car back up the hill. Parking is free on Wednesdays. What do you need at the beach: plenty of sunscreen, buckets and shovels, and beach toys. Pack plenty to drink and snack or lunch. Also, bring hats for everyone in the family. Picnic blanket and towels would be nice.

If you wish to attend the public presentation on "Snakes", it starts at 10 am at the Trading Post. So, BE THERE EARLY! The program is 30 minutes long with an additional 15 minutes to touch the snakes. To get to the Trading Post, you will pass the first entrance to the park, go over the bridge (crossing the lake) and make your first LEFT. Turning LEFT into the campground. Follow signs to the Trading Post. Afterwards, join us at the beach area.

Directions: From Clarkesville, take Hwy 17 to the end. Turn RIGHT onto Hwy 75, drive through Helen, pass Helen and 1/2 mile pass turn RIGHT onto Hwy 356.
Our thanks to Robyn Addison for gathering the details for our Unicoi trip!

Friday in the Park – Mt. Airy Park on Friday, June 27 from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Join us for another fun morning of fellowship.

Blueberry Picking @ Sidney Rolands Blueberries on Saturday, July 19 @ 9 a.m.
You and your family are invited to join us at Sidney Rolands Blueberries for a fun morning of blueberry picking. This is a great year for the berries. Bring a container to put your berries in (sand buckets work great for the kids). Also plan to bring a hat and/or sunscreen, a blanket and refreshments. Berries are $4 a gallon, if you can get that many in your bucket. We’ll plan to eat at the river behind The Roland House or on blankets in the blueberry patch if the river is too much for the little ones. There are a few shaded areas.

Directions: From Clarkesville, take 115 toward Cleveland. At four-way stop with Hwy 105 (Cannon Bridge Rd) turn RIGHT towards Helen. Go 2 miles, turn LEFT onto Riverbend. This turns into Smith Loop Road. After about 1.5 miles look for wooden sign on LEFT that says Sidney Rolands Blueberries, turn RIGHT onto Sidney Roland Rd (dirt road). Go down the road until you see Blueberry sign, turn RIGHT. Follow drive down, turn LEFT between blueberry rows, LEFT over little bridge, park in the grass and see all the blueberries!!!!
Our thanks to Melissa Maughon for coordinating the details for our blueberry outing!

Other events: On Sunday, June 29 @ Habersham County Fairgrounds, Bethlehem Baptist Church will host a FREE Patriotic Celebration for the community. Free hotdogs, cotton candy, popcorn, snow cones, puppet shows and more. Gates open at 5 p.m.

Details on Spray Grounds trip to be announced very soon. Check our blog regularly! Hope you’re having a great summer!

Summer is Here, Moms!

2008-06-13T15:56:00.000-04:00

Summer is definitely here and with its arrival has come some very warm temperatures. Today was our first official Friday in the Park (FIP) of the summer. Several moms and kids joined us at Pitts Park in Clarkesville for a wonderful morning. Thanks to Thursday's rain things were a little damp, but the temperatures were a little milder as well.

We'll be posting the Summer Calendar of events soon and posting information about upcoming events as details are finalized. Our summer includes some fun activities such as playdates, date nights and mom's night outs! So, check back often. In the meantime, be sure to contact us via email or phone (info to the right), if you have questions about MOPS. Have a great summer!

Moms catch up and cool off in the shade during FIP

Friday in the Park - THIS WEEK!

2008-06-09T15:53:00.000-04:00

Join us for our first Friday in the Park this week at Pitts Park. We'll meet from 10 to 11 am on Friday, June 13. In the event of rain, our FIP will be cancelled.
If you can't join us this week, go ahead and mark your calendars for our upcoming FIPs:

Friday, June 27 - 10 am @ Cleveland Park

Friday, July 11 - 9:30 am @ Cornelia City Park

Friday, July 25 - 9:30 am @ Demorest Park

Can't wait to see you there. We'll have cool drinks and lots of information about our upcoming MOPS year. You'll also have an opportunity to meet lots of our MOPS moms. Both members and non-members are welcomed.

MOPS is a group for mothers of preschoolers birth to kindergarten. We gather monthly during the school year for encouragement, fellowship and spirtual enrichment. We'd love to have you join us! For more information, contact Merideth Shaw at (706) 754-8273.

Tea, Treasures & First FIP

2008-05-17T15:47:00.000-04:00

The final MOPS meeting of the year was held on Friday, May 9th. The meeting was titled “Tea & Treasures” in which each table decorated their table with their own china and tea services. Throughout the meeting several moms shared “treasured memories” they will be taking away from this wonderful year of MOPS. Moms were treated to a lunch of tea sandwiches made by the BBC WMU members, mini cheesecakes, cheese straws and butter mints. Musical sensation, Missy Bramlett delivered a smashing performance of “If you want me to” by Ginny Owens. A slideshow presented by the steering team highlighted MOPS memories of the past year. It was sad to say goodbye to moms who are moving away, but we are already excitedly looking forward to what God has in store for our upcoming MOPS year!

Our first Friday in the Park (FIP) was held May 16th at Level Grove Baptist Church in Cornelia. It was a wonderful day for gathering together for fun, food and fellowship. Don't forget our summer FIPs kick off on June 13 at Pitts Park in Clarkesville. Join us at 10 am. New moms or non-MOPS members are welcome. We look forward to a wonderful summer!

Relax & Recharge

2008-04-28T22:04:00.000-04:00

Last Friday's Spa Day at MOPS was one to remember. With delicious spa-themed snacks and a morning of beauty secrets, it was a great time. The fondue was flowing and so was laughter as we slathered our feet in silky smoothness and covered our lips in some chalky white substance...all in the name of beauty!

Each mom was transported to a relaxing beachside scene courtesy of our miraculous eye treatments and the soothing sounds of waves. Everyone could just feel the sand beneath their feet...or maybe that was a plastic bag wiggling between my toes! Moms waved goodbye with silky smooth hands that had been treated to a parafin wax dip. What a morning!

Above all, we were reminded that when we are in desperate need of a recharge, we need only turn to the source of ultimate peace...our heavenly Father. What a joy it is to be reminded he cares for us even in our most frazzled states. So, next time the house is a wreck, dinner is burning and your kids are covered in chocolate pudding...remember God loves MOMS!

Don't forget to join us for our final official meeting of the MOPS year on Friday, May 9. We'll be having a MOPS Tea Party! You won't want to miss it.

Swap 'Till You Drop

2008-04-15T16:19:00.000-04:00

As the MOPS year draws to a close each meeting is a frenzy of activity and excitement, and April's first meeting was no different. MOPS moms participated in a Clothes Swap. All interested moms brought gently used clothing, shoes and other accessories and sorted them by sizes. After a great devotional and time of brainstorming for next year, all moms started "shopping" the swapped items. Many moms enjoyed being able to trade in for some new fashions for spring and summer and others scoured the maternity tables for much needed items. All remaining clothing and accessories were donated to the Circle of Hope thrift store. Circle of Hope is a local agency that provides temporary shelter, crisis intervention and comprehensive support services for victims of domestic violence.

This week's devotional was a viewing of The Invisible Woman, a sketch/testimony performed by Nicole Johnson at the Women of Faith conferences, that affirms women in their often unseen daily chores for their families. Invisibility is often inflicted upon mothers. By the nature of our job our faces disappear and our work is anonymous. We become hands, lifting and wiping, cooking and cleaning, but also building and shaping. Johnson reminds mothers that we are not invisible to God, the one we ultimately are to serve. If you missed it, you can view Johnson's sketch here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=9YU0aNAHXP0&feature=related

INK Museum Play Date, Gainesville

2008-02-22T12:21:00.000-05:00

Monday, February 18th, Habersham MOPS had a play date at the INK museum in Gainesville! Due to the holiday, school-age children of MOPS were able to come along also! Here are some photo highlights of the day's visit! If you have any photos that you would like to have posted, email them to Erin .

When & Where does MOPS meet?

2008-01-26T21:02:00.000-05:00

Habersham MOPS meets twice monthly during the school year, typically the first and third Fridays of each month. Our meetings take place at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Clarkesville, Ga. from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Fall semester runs from September to December; and Spring semester from January to May. During the summer we typically arrange monthly playdates or other special events.

For directions to Bethlehem Baptist Church, visit the church website. Upcoming meeting dates and other events are posted in the right hand sidebar.

What will I do with my children?

2008-01-26T20:57:00.000-05:00

While moms enjoy refreshments, guest speakers, crafts and conversation with other moms, your little ones are being cared for in a loving environment right in the same building. The MOPPETS ministry is not just 2 hours of free babysitting. Children are divided into age appropriate groups and enjoy bible stories, games, crafts, singing and other activities.

If you are ever needed for any reason, a MOPPET worker will come and get you. Infants up to 6 months old are permitted to join mom in the meeting area.

What happens at a MOPS meeting?

2008-01-26T20:53:00.000-05:00

MOPS meetings include fun, food & friends. Our hope is that you'll relax and enjoy your time with other moms while you get a break from feeding someone else, changing diapers and those treacherous mountains of laundry!

A typical MOPS meeting goes a little like this:

Drop off your Moppets
Register & eat breakfast
Welcome & Announcements
Guest Speaker or Craft Project
Discussion Groups
Pick up those precious bundles all refreshed!

Sometimes there is a speaker and other times a craft or activity, but always support for those glamorous and not so glamorous moments of motherhood!

What is MOPS?

2008-01-26T20:42:00.000-05:00

MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers and is an international organization which serves to encourage, equip, and help women become the best moms that they can be! Women who are expecting or have children ages birth through Kindergarten are invited to join MOPS!

MOPS is all about:

celebrating motherhood (the good, the bad & the ugly!)
meeting needs
making connections
experiencing God's love through relationships & resources

MOPS is designed for all mothers of preschoolers (conception through Kindergarten) and is coordinated by a Steering Team consisting of MOPS moms! Your preschooler will find an open, caring atmosphere and you'll find the same! At MOPS the specific needs of today's preschool mothers are met.

At MOPS you will share in small discussion groups where women interact, encourage and learn from one another. You'll encounter a comfortable setting for social and spiritual enrichment for both you and your child(ren).

If you want to join us, please contact our coordinator for more information on our next meeting or special event. Contact information can be found on the right sidebar.

2007-11-20T13:06:00.000-05:00

Matti Grace Farrow, 6, says she is thankful for cookies during the Thanksgiving Holidays. Maisy Beth Farrow, 2, says she is most thankful for her uncle, John Michael. Matt and I on the other hand are most thankful for each and every second we have with each other and our children, the sweet little giggles and yes, of course those loud shrill screams when their whole world has been turned upsidedown. For all the night night prayers that we share together that really reveal what is going on in those tiny hearts and make every single mishap worthwhile for that day. Thank you God, for being such a personal God and blessing us with the gift of relationships. Paige Farrow

I am incredibly thankful for the wonderful opportunity to be a stay-at-home wife and mother. It has been the most incredible blessing to be able to take care of my son and my husband (and myself!). Melissa Wood

As I look into the eyes of my four beautiful children, I can't help but be absolutely thankful for God's awesome creations! The incredible foliage on the trees and the breathtaking blue of the autumn sky just increase my amazement at God's goodness!! I am also thankful for wonderful friendships and laughter experienced at MOPS!! MOPS is truly a well-needed break to be with other moms and share these wonderful mommy years! Sylvia Hotard

I am so thankful for so many things! I was sitting here thinking about this year and what things the Lord has blessed me with, a wonderful husband and 3 precious little girls. This past year I have enjoyed watching my baby grow into this amazing little toddler. We are also moving into our new home just the day before thanksgiving and this has been many months of waiting (as it was being built) this is a big exciting thanksgiving for us! We are so proud of our new place and the Lords blessings!!! My six year old has been wanting a basset dog for 2 yrs. and we told her to pray about it and this year the Lord answered her prayers and provided her this new dog, which she is so thankful for. I am so thankful for all my new friends I have come to meet thanks to mops for moms and this has been a special blessing to my heart as well!!!! Kassie Perry

Playdate: Jaemor Farms Market

2007-10-15T14:59:00.000-04:00

Habersham MOPS visits Jaemor Farms

What a great day for a hayride!

MOPS & their Moppets had a fun morning playing in the pumpkin patch,

learning how they wash apples,

and taking a hayride!

What fun! We had about 15 moms today...a great turn-out! Thanks for coming!! We would love to add more images to the blog. Just send them to habershammops@gmail.com!

Habersham MOPS Meetings Officially Begin!

2007-09-14T08:15:00.000-04:00

Habersham MOPS First Meeting
A Grand Success

Thank you, MOPS Moms, for making this all possible!

The Steering Team had a wonderful time Friday as we celebrated the first of many MOPS meetings together.

Our Mentor Moms, Kathy Cashion, Kathy Riley, Sherrill Thomas & Marty Thurmond provided a scrumptious pancake breakfast to start off the morning just right.

The Pastor of Bethlehem Baptist, Bill Cashion, prayed over us and welcomed us to their wonderful facility.

Some goofy girls put on a silly skit.

Children played harmoniously in the preschool wing while they were nurtured & loved by MOPPETS workers.

Mothers treated themselves to 2 hours to become rested & refreshed.

Women gathered together as one group to encourage, inspire, and relate with one another!

Welcome to MOPS, ladies! We hope this year brings new & deepened friendships, recognition for all the hard work you put into your family, growth in those skills, a break from the ordinary, and, most importantly, a relationship with your Creator the Lord Jesus Christ!!

**Let us assure you that the Steering Team does not always want their pictures posted to this blog (smile). We do not yet have approval from our MOPS Members to post the pictures of them or their children. We will request permission at the next meeting so that we can put the beautiful faces of our MOPPETS Workers, MOPS Moms and children on this site!

It's NEVER too late to join MOPS!

2007-09-05T14:48:00.000-04:00

Our first MOPS meeting is THIS Friday, September 7th!

8:45-11:00 am

Still on the fence? Come check us out this Friday, your first MOPS meeting is free. Please contact Merideth Shaw if you plan on attending so we can reserve a space for your little ones in MOPPETS!

haberhshammops@gmail.com

706-754-8273

We have over 40 pre-registered moms!! Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity!

New Workers, Opened Classes

2007-09-02T21:29:00.000-04:00

We are excited to announce that there are two new MOPPETS Workers! This means the Infant & One Year Old Classes have reopened!

This is an answer to prayer and we are relieved that moms will not have to make their own childcare arrangements!

Remember, it is NEVER too late for you to register for MOPS...beginning, middle or end of the semester. Our first meeting is September 7th...THIS FRIDAY!! Join the fun...find friendships...feed your spirit! Moms take care of so much! So...who takes care of Moms? MOPS does!

Registration Still Open...MOPPETS Filling Up Fast!

2007-08-27T19:55:00.000-04:00

Dear Moms,

We are excited to tell you that we are still accepting registrations! There has been a fantastic response to Habersham MOPS!!! The Steering Team is hard at work preparing for Fall Meetings and beyond! Remember, our first meeting is September 7th!

With such a tremendous response, we are experiencing limited space in the MOPPETS (children's) program!

God's Gifts (Babies) - Class is closed as child/teacher ratio is met
Special Ones (Creepers/Crawlers) - Class is closed as ratio is met
Forever Friends (1s & 2s) - 3 Spaces Remaining
Helping Hands (3s & 4s...up to 5) - 5 Spaces Remaining

Please do not be discouraged!!! We will NEVER turn down any moms!! However- if you register, you will need to make childcare arrangements on your own until we are able to secure more loving childcare volunteers. There will be a waiting list for MOPPETS, as the need arises. It will be based on a first come, first served basis. Registration forms are still coming in and we will post changes to available spaces as we receive them. Also, as registrations are received, mothers will be placed on the appropriate waiting list(s) for classes, as applicable.

We are praying fervently for more MOPPETS volunteers in order to better accommodate ALL children of moms who want to be a part of MOPS.

2007-08-23T19:26:00.000-04:00

Habersham MOPS invites you to

Open House

Friday, August 24thBethlehem Baptist ChurchFellowship Hall8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

The hot weather has driven us inside! Instead of holding a registration roundup outside, we will have an Open House with coffee, tea, and a light breakfast indoors! This will be a great opportunity for moms who would like to register.

The Steering Team will be working on various tasks to get ready for our first meeting on September 7th! They would like for you to drop by briefly to meet the Steering Team, register yourself and your child(ren), and/or take a short tour of the beautiful facilities at Bethlehem Baptist Church. If you have already registered, please feel free to also come to the Open House. This event will be very informal and casual.

Registration is still open, but the MOPPETS (childcare) program is filling up fast! Please contact Merideth Shaw at habershammops@gmail.com or 706-754-8273 if you would like to register.

REGISTRATION IS STILL OPEN!!

2007-08-20T16:04:00.000-04:00

Registration for Habersham MOPS is still open, but the MOPPETS (childcare) program is filling up fast! Please contact Merideth Shaw at habershammops@gmail.com or 706-754-8273 if you would like to register.

Here is a preview of what is in store for us this year ….
The Steering Team has been working throughout the Spring and Summer to create a curriculum for this year that is both practical and sensitive to the needs of mothers. We have heard over and over from mothers, grandmothers, aunts, cousins, etc., “Oh, that’s such a great idea and so needed in our community,” or “I wish MOPS would have been around when my kids were preschoolers!” This little bit of inspiration has gone a long way and we hope that you find this MOPS year to be just what the house doctor ordered!

This year our theme is the HOME Factor. MOPS International provides a new theme each year and chartered groups use that theme to build a relevant curriculum for the year. Our steering team took the direction of focusing on different rooms in the home. Some of the topics/discussions will range from home organization, how to inspire a hungry reader, preserving family memories to decorating and the meaning of true hospitality.

Please join us for an exciting year!!

No Friday in the Park, August 17th

2007-08-14T20:27:00.000-04:00

Due to the incredible heat this August, we are canceling Friday in the Park this Friday, August 17th! We had a fantastic summer with all of you at FIP.

Our last FIP was extremely hot...the true Georgia summer has arrived.
MOPS wants you to know that we are always available for questions, concerns, and registration! But SPACE IS LIMITED!!!

Don't forget, MOPPETS (children's program) is now free!!!

MOPS Cost TOTAL: $40.00 for Fall
($20.00 MOPS International plus $20.00 HabershamMOPS fee)

Please make checks payable to: Bethlehem Baptist Church

Please send an email to Merideth Shaw at habershammops@gmail.com or call 706-754-8273 for specific registration instructions.

Click on the link below to download a registration form:

http://www.bbcofclarkesville.org/clientimages/29881/mops/registr

Friday in the Park, August 3rd

2007-07-30T16:10:00.001-04:00

We had a wonderful time in Cleveland! This Friday we'll be back at

Pitts Park in Clarkesville from 10-11 a.m.!

Early Bird Registration has been extended until this Friday, August 3rd!

And don't forget that MOPPETS is now FREE!!

On Friday, we will announce the winner of the Toddler Basketball Goal & Basketball! We hope to see you at Pitts Park whether or not you've already signed up, you're planning on signing up or you're wondering what MOPS is all about! We'll have yummy snacks, bottled water and lots of fun together! Please join us! September 7th will be here before you know it! Whether you're a mother of five or pregnant, a stay-at-home mom or a working mom...MOPS is the place for you! Scholarships are available (email or call - information on the left side of the page).

Friday in the Park July 27th

2007-07-25T13:19:00.000-04:00

Habersham MOPS will meet this Friday in Cleveland

Woodmen of the World Park

Please join us for snacks, bottled water, & your chance to win a toddler sized basketball & goal!

The deadline for early registration is coming soon...August 1st! So come for some great conversation, playtime for the kids, & to sign up for this Fall semester of MOPS!

We already have many moms who have signed up and we are eagerly awaiting September 7th for our very first MOPS meeting!

Directions: From Clarkesville, take Hwy. 115 to Cleveland.
Turn Right on N. Main Street in downtown.
Turn Right onto Church Street (2nd Street).
Go through 2 stop signs.
Turn Left onto Woodmen Hall Road.

Exciting News!!! Due to a recent donation, childcare (MOPPETS) will be FREE for all mothers!!!!

Scholarships are available! All moms give their every resource to care for their little ones & MOPS is here to help mothers replenish those resources. If you are in need of a partial or full scholarship for MOPS, email or call. Your need will be held in complete confidence of the Steering Team.
Moms take care of so much...so who takes care of Moms? MOPS does!

2007-07-14T19:48:00.000-04:00

The MOPS had a great time in Cleveland!

Woodmen of the World Park is a fantastic park with the perfect covered pavilion...it tried to rain but only got us with a few sprinkles! The kids had a ball & we met some wonderful moms who were there with their play group, along with the usual suspects!

The next Friday in the Park is scheduled for

July 27th from 10 am - 11 am!

2007-07-10T07:21:00.000-04:00

Friday in the Park, July 13th in Cleveland!

Habersham MOPS invites you to Friday in the Park

Woodmen of the World Park

Cleveland, GA

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Directions: From Clarkesville, take Hwy. 115 to Cleveland.

Turn Right on N. Main Street in downtown.

Turn Right onto Church Street (2nd Street).

Go through 2 stop signs.

Turn Left onto Woodmen Hall Road.

We will have a morning snack & bottle of water for you and your little one(s). For those of you who have attended before, we have a great group of "regulars"! It is such a fun time for the kids to play and the moms to chit-chat, run after kids, and eat high calorie snacks...oh, I mean no calorie! If you haven't attended before, come for lots of great information plus the fantastic benefits already mentioned. See you there!

MOPS begins September 7th with our very first meeting at Bethlehem Baptist of Clarkesville!!!Early bird registration ends August 1st so sign up soon! There will also be a July drawing for a Toddler basketball & goal.

Weather permitting, of course!

Summer Survival Bucket Winner

2007-06-20T12:35:00.001-04:00

The winner of our "Summer Survival Bucket" was Jodi Mosher. Pictured here holding the bucket with her two boys. Our publicity leader, Erin Williams and her son are next to Jodi. Congratulations!!

Our next giveaway is a toddler sized basket ball and goal- be sure to register to win at our next Friday in the Park!

ATTENTION: DATE CHANGE

2007-06-13T13:07:00.000-04:00

Hello Moms! We hope you are enjoying your summer! We wanted you to know that the date for the next Friday in The Park has changed to NEXT

Friday, June 22nd

from 10-11am at

Level Grove Baptist Church Playground.

Please contact Merideth Shaw at habershammops@gmail.com for more information.

We are still accepting 'early bird' registration which includes a discount and free gift.

Hope to see you there!

Friday in the Park, June 1st

2007-05-30T20:10:00.000-04:00

Habersham MOPS will be at Level Grove Baptist Church's Playground this Friday!

June 1st & 15th

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Level Grove Baptist Church Playground in Cornelia

Congratulations to Jodi for winning the Summer Survival Bucket for May's drawing! There will be another drawing for a fantastic prize for June!

Don't forget Early Bird Registration now until August 1st...You don't want to miss the discount & free gift.

Directions

Take 365 South to the Level Grove Exit (Second Cornelia Exit). Turn Left.

Level Grove Baptist Church will be on the left, before McDonald's.

The playground is behind the church. See you there!!

*Please note the time change...10 to 11 a.m.*

FRIDAY IN THE PARK

2007-05-25T08:12:00.000-04:00

Habersham MOPS will be at Pitts Park TODAY!

We will be accepting registration forms for Fall Semester.

We will also hold the drawing for our "Summer Survival Bucket"

Hope to see you there!!

MOPS Registration is OPEN!

2007-05-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

Habersham MOPS is now registering moms & their children for the Fall Semester of 2007!

Please register as soon as possible, space in our MOPPETS program is limited.

The costs are as follows:

$20 MOPS International Registration Fee

$15 Habersham MOPS registration Fee (by August 1st, $20 after August 1st)

TOTAL: $35.00

Please make checks payable to: Bethlehem Baptist Church

Please send an email to Merideth Shaw at habershammops@gmail.com or call 706-754-8273 for specific registration instructions.

Click on the link below to download a registration form:

http://www.bbcofclarkesville.org/clientimages/29881/mops/registrationform_mops_moms.pdf

Friday Wrap-up

2007-05-12T16:31:00.000-04:00

What a wonderful turnout we had at Pitts Park on Friday. We met more moms who are excited about MOPS! We also registered moms to win a "Summer Survival Pack"- the drawing will be held at our next "Friday in the Park" on May 26th.

We also registered 2 more moms for Habersham MOPS! Space is limited so please register as soon as you can!

Thanks to everyone who came out- looking forward to seeing you again soon!!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Love,
Habersham MOPS

FRIDAY IN THE PARK

2007-05-10T21:32:00.000-04:00

PLEASE JOIN US FOR

FRIDAY IN THE PARK

THIS FRIDAY
MAY, 11th

PITTS PARK, Clarkesville GA

10:30-11:30

Muffins, Donuts and water will be served!

Friday In The Park- CANCELLED

2007-05-04T09:33:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY IN THE PARK CANCELLED TODAY

Due to inclement weather, today's Friday in The Park has been cancelled. We hope to see everyone out there next week!!

Love & Blessings,
Habersham MOPS Steering Team

Join us THIS Friday

2007-04-26T08:45:00.000-04:00

"Fridays In The Park"
Sponsored by Habersham MOPS, a ministry of Bethlehem Baptist Church

EVERY FRIDAY IN APRIL & MAY (except May 18th)

Pitts Park
10:30-11:30 am
Join us for food,friendship & mom to mom conversation!
BRING YOUR FRIENDS!!

Registration for the 2007/2008 MOPS International year Begins NOW! The registration fee is $20 per MOPS Year (Sept-May)- we will have more details available at each Friday in The Park.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) is coming to Habersham County! MOPS is a group where mothers will come together to support each other and grow in relationship with Jesus Christ & other moms. Join us for Fridays in the Park throughout the summer to find out more about MOPS. We will meet at Pitts Park from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. April 27 and all Fridays in May (except May 18th). Meetings will begin in September at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Clarkesville & follow the school calendar. Meeting times in the fall will be 8:45 - 11:00 a.m. on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the months. A children's program will be available for your little MOPPETS! Come open the door to enhancing God's purpose for you as a mother! For more information, call 706.754.4870, email habershammops@gmail.com or visit http://habershammops.blogspot.com/ .

Serving Mothers, Serving Him,

Merideth Shaw

Habersham MOPS Coordinator

www.habershammops.blogspot.com

(706) 754-8273

Our First FIP- a success!

2007-04-21T08:29:00.000-04:00

We had our first "Friday In The Park" yesterday at Pitts Park in Clarkesville, GA. It was SO WONDERFUL to meet moms from the community and to just have some mom-to-mom conversation. We gave out muffins and water bottles to the moms and children along with information about MOPS. Every single mom we talked to showed a genuine interest in MOPS- the excitement was contagious! We could not have asked for more beautiful weather!

If you would like to come and see what all the fun is about, please join us EVERY FRIDAY in April & May (except May 18th) for food, fun & conversation at Pitts Park in Clarkesville from 10:30-11:30am. ALL moms welcome & please bring friends!!

Introducing Our Steering Team

2007-04-19T15:45:00.000-04:00

Here are your fearless leaders! From L-R: (Top) Kathy Cashion, Sonya Farrel, Merideth Shaw, Amanda Hagerty & Sherrill Thomas. (Bottom) Missy Bramlett, Mary Beth Shoemake & Erin Williams

Fridays In The Park

2007-04-12T20:01:00.000-04:00

Our first "Friday in the Park" will be Friday, April 20th at Pitts Park in Clarkesville, GA from 10:30-11:30 am. We will be serving FREE yummy muffins and refreshing bottled water and handing out informational fliers about MOPS. We will also be available to answer any questions you may have regarding MOPS.

We look forward to seeing you there!!

What is MOPS?

2007-02-21T08:07:00.000-05:00

MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers. MOPS is a non-denominational Christian organization open to all mothers with children from birth to age 5 . MOPS helps moms…and MOPS makes a difference in the lives of families. The purpose of MOPS International is to nurture every mother of preschoolers by meeting her distinct needs. This purpose is carried out in a variety of ways by offering:

*An opportunity for friendship with other moms.
*Encouragement and practical tips for surviving the preschool years.
*Meeting topics based on biblical values about mothering, womanhood and relationships.
*Group discussions where moms can express their thoughts and feelings in an accepting environment.
*Time to express creativity in a variety of activities.
*A break away from your child for a couple hours.
*New life skills to take home with you.

Shortened Team Descriptions

2007-02-17T18:51:00.000-05:00

Amanda recently reminded me that although I am really into details and that is great...some people just want to be able to glance at something and get a general idea of what is going on. I know she is right, so here are some majorly condensed Team Descriptions. (Thanks for the Advice, Amanda!!)

Team Descriptions

Mothers of preschoolers who volunteer to keep this program going run MOPS. We require all moms who join to serve on a specialized team allowing you the opportunity to make more friends. A little bit of time, a whole lot of fun!

Creative Activities Team
The Creative Activities Coordinator will work with a crafts team of 5-8 moms who will help plan and facilitate the crafts. The craft team will set up and organize that day’s craft and have samples to show the group. The craft team may meet monthly and do the craft ahead of time, if needed, and then assist moms on craft day that need help. You may be only assigned 1-2 crafts during the year that you will help plan with the Creative Activities Coordinator. Creativity is not necessary for Craft Team members. They do need to love glue guns, raffia and shopping at Michaels!

Hospitality Team
The hospitality team will consist of 8-10 mom volunteers. They will be trained on the MOPS day hospitality needs and be given a “Morning Hostess” greeting schedule. 1 to 2 will be back up hospitality helpers to cover for the Hospitality Team Leader if she is unable to make a MOPS day. The “Morning Hostess team” responsibilities is to arrive early, greeting and assisting the moms as they arrive to MOPS. Hospitality Team members must love a nicely set table, have a warm and welcoming spirit, and think tiny serving spatulas are God’s gift to desserts!

Publicity Team
Assist Publicity Team Leader with any publicity needs for the year. She may help design and implement MOPS paper/publicity needs. She will also help collect inspirational or funny stories, recipes, community and church news for our newsletter. Publicity team members get a thrill out of a perfectly laid out flyer taking special pride in wrapping text around imported images. She also thinks clip art is her friend and Publisher is the best program ever invented!

Special Events Team
The Special Events team helps The Special Events Coordinator plan and facilitate all MOPS yearly special events. Special event team members love planning a good party and think all guests must feel special and be entertained!

Registration/Finance Team
Assist Finance Team Leader with collecting registration forms and payments for new and returning moms. She will help plan and participate in our yearly registration events and any fundraising events. She may also assist in communicating with our hired MOPPETS Workers regarding payroll and hours. Finance Team members must be good with numbers, enjoy counting money, love excel spreadsheets and finds excitement when balancing checkbooks.

MOPS Benefits are Plenty!

2007-02-01T10:36:00.000-05:00

Membership Benefite of MOPS International:

MOMSense Magazine Bi-monthly subscription full of mothering expertise, parenting tips and fun things to do with your preschoolers!

Fresh Air For Moms CD Elisa Morgan and Sara Groves send an encouraging message to moms through Elisa's words and Sara's music.

Children's CD ROM VeggieTales and MOPS have created a special compilation of stories, songs and activities just for you and your child (CD will come with MOMSense magazine in December).
MOM-E-Mail Words of encouragement to start off each week right.

Book for Moms Breathe shows how to make time to actually enjoy your life as mom (Book will come with MOMSense magazine in May).
Membership Card

Special member-only DISCOUNTS on MOPS products, events and sponsored items at www.MOPS.org/membership.

Additional Benefits from our MOPS International Membership Sponsors!
Local MOPS Group Community. MOPS encourages you to attend a local MOPS group, where moms come together to learn, share and experience this important season of mothering in a caring and accepting atmosphere.