Overland Park MOPS

Jonny Girson with The Learning Tree

2012-03-01T09:18:00.000-06:00

2/23/12 Video Announcements

2012-02-23T17:30:00.004-06:00

In case you missed the last meeting, here are the announcements for 2/23/12:

Swap Auction

2012-02-15T10:57:00.000-06:00

Hello lovely MOPS ladies! Join us for our next meeting on Thursday, February 23.

Brunch will be provided by the Twister and Hungry Hippos Tables.

We will be having one of our favorite meetings: Swap Auction!!! Bring in an item(s) that you like (and others will like too) but you no longer use (e.g., jewelry, appliances, kids toys, home decor). We will place all of the items on a large table and auction them off. We will give everyone an envelope with an undisclosed amount of monopoly money from which you can use as you bid on the item(s) that you want to go home with....yep, just ended that sentence with a preposition. This is a lot of fun! Hope to see you there!

P.S. if you don't have anything to bring, then come anyway because you'll still have a lot of fun!!

Valentine's Party

2012-02-11T14:30:00.000-06:00

Join us for aValentine’s Party for our little ones at Coffee playGround on February 14 from11-12.

Bring adecorated box/bag to receive valentines, unaddressed valentines for the otherchildren, and a snack to share.

Feb. 9th Video Announcements

2012-02-11T14:00:00.000-06:00

Did you miss our last meeting? Here are the video announcements for Feb. 9, 2012:

Mom's Night Out! Mi Ranchito!!!

2012-02-09T09:00:00.000-06:00

Women of Faith one-day event

2012-02-06T15:23:00.003-06:00

Join us as we trek down to Wichita for a

Women of Faith ONE DAY event.

We will leave on Friday, March 30th

to have a night of shopping, dinner, and fun,

and then attend the conference on Saturday the 31st from 10-5,

after which we'll have dinner and head back on up to KC.

For more details, view your Facebook Invite.

We will purchase tickets on February 15th,

so make sure you RSVP before then!

Smarter Moms- Kasey Johnson!

2012-02-01T11:09:00.000-06:00

Being a Mom is tough and can be very overwhelming. There are so many details, people, events and tasks to be completed - it's easy to lose sight of what really matters. We all agree, family first - but how do we make sure our family members are being supported and we're meeting their individual needs? Kasey will teach us 5 specific words that represent the essentials of parenting and will help in raising kids that know how much they are loved, how they fit into this world and how they can show these same traits to others.

Bring your ideas and questions - we'll have time to discuss and brainstorm after we learn these 5 ordinary, yet extraordinary words!

KaseyJohnson is an energetic, passionate speaker and she's coming to our group on Feb. 9, 2012! As a MOPS ConventionSpeaker, MomSense contributor and mother to three boys; Kasey loves spendingtime with other women who believe in their calling as Mothers. Kasey will haveyou laughing, thinking, sharing with each other and most importantly -remembering how important you are! Moms across the country are loving the ideasand encouragement found in her latest book, "7 Ways To Be A S.M.A.R.T.E.R.Mom". We have a chance to purchase a signed copy on the 9^th socome prepared with a debit card, check or cash in the amount of $15 and haveKasey sign your book with a special note!

Wantto know more about Kasey? Visit her blog, www.smarter-moms.com,and check out her many posts about parenting and what it really means tobe a mom in the 21st century. It's going to be a wonderful time of growing andlearning but it won't be as great without you - so mark your calendars andwe'll see you at our next meeting!

Meal Planning and Preparation

2012-01-19T14:59:00.000-06:00

Join us on Thursday, January 26^th for ournext MOPS meeting with special guest speaker Mylie Hadden. Mylie is a Certified Family Manager Coach atTake Charge Organizers, and she will be sharing her knowledge on Meal Planningand Food Preparation. Please join us even if you have everythingtogether and are the overachiever mom in the kitchen because we’d love to hearwhat works for you during our discussion time!

2012 Candle Lighting Ceremony

2012-01-05T10:49:00.000-06:00

Join usfor one of our favorite MOPS meetings, the Candle Lighting Ceremony. Each mom will have an opportunity to share anevent of the last year that was especially difficult or exciting and her hopesfor the New Year. Just a heads up: Wearyour water-proof mascara!

Brunch will beprovided by the

Hungry, Hungry Hippo and Twister Tables.

Tush Tightening Tuesdays!

2012-01-01T22:28:00.000-06:00

It’s a newyear; it’s time for a new you! Join usevery Tuesday from 11-12 at Coffee playGround during the months ofJanuary-March (perhaps indefinitely) as we do a group workout! Need an incentive? Join our weight-loss challenge for $5/month. The individual that loses themost weight (based on percentage) at the end of each month gets to take homeall of the money to buy a new pair of jeans (or whatever)!

Book Exchange

2011-11-28T23:26:00.001-06:00

Christmas Tea 2011

2011-11-15T00:10:00.001-06:00

Join us on Friday,December 2^nd at 7:00 p.m. for anannual Christmas Tea in the activity center at Overland Park First Assembly ofGod. The activity center will be filledwith dozens of fancy tables dressed in fine china and Christmas décor.

If you’ve always wanted areason to get out and use your china, stems, and flatware; then volunteer tohost a table. Otherwise, just show up with a plateof your favorite Christmas treat to share. Look for your Facebook event invite to rsvpso that we can make sure to save a seat for you!

MNO: Conquer, chat, and chill

2011-11-02T15:05:00.001-05:00

MOM's Night Out!!! Are your Pinterest boards maxed out, yet you haven’tcreated anything yet? Since we alwayshave a list of projects that we’d like to accomplish, we’re dedicating a nightjust for that! Come create something newfor the Holiday Season. Join us onThursday, November 17 @ 7p.m in the coffee shop. Bring a project that you’d like to work on (Ihate using the word “craft”), and if you have no creative gene in you, thenjust come and hang out. Bring a snack toshare if you’d like!

Holiday Decorating

2011-11-02T14:33:00.003-05:00

At our next MOPS meeting on Thursday, November 10^th,Karen Rogers will share with us her tips for Holiday Decorating. Also, we will have a time to share holiday traditionsthat we do as a family and any holiday projects that you have done or arethinking of doing……bring those pinterest ideas with you! This will be a fun time to be inspired andperhaps inspire others as we start our holiday season. Brunchwill be provided by the Twister and Hungry, Hungry Hippo tables.

Vacation Planning

2011-10-21T00:46:00.000-05:00

At our next MOPS meeting on Thursday, October 27^thfrom 9-11:15, we’ll be getting insider tips on planning a vacation for thefamily and for couples. Meredith justwants to get to Bora Bora fast! Join usas Heather Underwood from Travel Concepts shares her knowledge of travel. Come learn about the pros and cons ofdifferent types of vacations so that you can choose which vacation type isright for you….and start saving some money!

Brunch will be provided by the I Spy and CandylandTables! The Door Prize will be passes to LeapingLizards, Kansas City’s premier indoor inflatable play)!

Costume Swap!

2011-10-17T10:27:00.002-05:00

It’s thattime of year again: Costume Swap!! Bring any costumes that your kids aren’t usingthis year to Coffee PlayGround on Tuesday, October 18 (10a.m.-1p.m.). You get to decide if you want to allow someoneto purchase your costume to keep or to just borrow and return afterHalloween.

I’m makingup a fresh batch of Sloppy Joe meat, so bring $2 for a Sloppy Joe Sandwich andChips Lunch! Money will go towardsMOPS! ….we sure could use some new ride-on toys and scooters! Can I get an “Amen!”?

Also, Jamesand Cecelia will be celebrating their birthdays tomorrow, so come play andenjoy some birthday cupcakes!!!

10/13/11 Meeting Announcements

2011-10-14T14:56:00.000-05:00

In case you missed yesterday's meeting, here are the announcements:

Marriage Conference

2011-10-05T23:13:00.000-05:00

WHY PEOPLE ACT WEIRD!

Overland Park First Assembly of God

November 4, 2011 from 7PM-10PM

November 5, 2011 from 9AM-12:30PM

Childcare for the weekend $15/family

TOPIC:

So often the marital struggle is no different than the individual struggle. It is closely related to the fears and insecurities each person carries with them on a daily basis. Why do we explosively react and not calmly respond? How does our spouse know how to push “all the right buttons?” How do I effectively share my heart with those I love without getting hurt?

Join us in a life changing and humorous discovery of learning WHY PEOPLE ACT WEIRD.

Click Here to Register On-line and to obtain more details on this event and the speaker.

2011 Consignment Sale and Holiday Bazaar

2011-10-05T14:30:00.000-05:00

OverlandPark MOPS will be hosting a community Consignment Sale and Holiday Bazaar eventon Saturday, October 15^thfrom 10a.m.-3p.m. at Overland Park FirstAssembly of God.

If you wouldlike to purchase a table to sell your crafts, consignment clothes, or advertiseyour business; please email us at overlandparkmops@gmail.com,and we will send you an event application.

Tables are $20 each and are first come first serve as there is a limited amountavailable.

Some of the vendors include: Thirty-One, Simply Fun, Pampered Chef, Scentsy, Handmade Jewelry, CookieLee Jewelry, Quilts, Scarves, Osborne Books, Simply Said (InspirationalSayings), Scrappy Ya Yas (Scrapbooks, journals, notebooks, etc.), CelebratingHome, Tastefully Simple, Little Sugars (Boutique clothing and accessories forlittle ones), Dog Treats, Handmade Cards, Blankets and Pillowcases, Jackets and Vests,Hand Turned WoodenCrafts, Dolls, Pixie Fairy Coats made of used sweaters, Owl Purses, HomemadeVanilla Extract, Silhouettes, garlands, Tupperware, Gourmet cupcakes, HeirloomCandies (Peanut, Cashew, and Almond Brittle), and chocolates.….in addition toConsignment clothing from infants- adults and household items. ….and more!

First Aide with Jeff Johson

2011-10-03T13:30:00.001-05:00

Do you know what to do if your child has a foreign object in his/her eye, nose, or ear? Do you know what steps to take if there is a dislocation or broken bone? What about snakebites, chemical burns, poisoning, heatstroke, human bites, puncture wounds, severe bleeding, shock,…..now I’m all freaked out! Come learn some first aide skills that will make you the hero when the next accident strikes at the playground. First Aide Guru, Jeff Johnson, will be sharing his wealth of knowledge with us on Thursday, October 13th. Also, the door prize will be tickets to the KC Pumpkin Patch, so make sure you arrive on time (between 8:45-9:00a.m.) to qualify for the door prize drawing! Brunch will be provided by the Twister and Hungry,Hungry Hippo Tables. See you there!

Mom's Night Out: Photography

2011-09-21T10:31:00.001-05:00

Join us for a Mom’s Night Out with Kami Van Slyke fromOrangePeel Photography on Thursday, Sept. 29^th at 7:00p.m. in theCoffee Shop at Overland Park First Assembly of God. This will be a great instructional and funtime for beginners or those who have little or no knowledge on operating their digital camera.

Kami will cover topics such as: taking photographs without flash,composition, and color balancing images.

In addition, Kami will be giving away this crazy, awesomedoor prize: one- half hour mini session in an outdoor location with a DVD ofthe edited high resolution images and a $20 credit towards a professional print. To qualify for the prize, you must bring your digital camera (even if it doesn't work) and you must submit one photography relatedquestion upon arriving. You can have an extra entry for the door prize if youbring a 4x6 of an image that you took that you are proud of (for whateverreason).

For more information on Kami Van Slyke and OrangePeel Photography visither site: http://www.orangepeelphoto.com

Parenting 101 with Allan Gonsher

2011-09-12T15:14:00.001-05:00

Join us forour next MOPS meeting on Thursday, September 22 as we have the opportunity tolearn from Allan Gonsher on the topic of Parenting 101. Allan is a child and family counselor, aswell as, the founder and president of Kids Inc. Click here for more info about Allan and Kids Inc. If you are already the perfect parent, then there's no need to come; otherwise, we'll see you then!

Announcements from 9/8/11 Meeting

2011-09-09T17:08:00.002-05:00

If you missed the first meeting on 9/8/11, here are the announcements!

First Meeting of 2011-2012!

2011-09-01T23:43:00.000-05:00

It’s our first official MOPS meeting of the year!!! We have lots of fun planned. The steeringteam will be providing brunch, so come hungry! Our speaker, CarolineCooper, founder of “In This Corner Ministry,” will talk about this year’sMOPS theme: MOMSENSE. She will look athow God has called us to be Bold, Loving and Sensible with the gifts he has givenus as mothers and how we can directly apply that to our lives regardless of ourbackgrounds. Caroline has struggled withdepression and anxiety for most of her life. After a severe bout withdepression, she experienced firsthand God’s powerful restoration. We encourage you to come and learn about thisyear’s theme….and of course there will be plenty of fun involved!

Kaleidoscope Fun!

2011-08-15T16:53:00.000-05:00

It’s the last play date of the summer! Join us for some art fun at Kaleidoscope on August 25 at 12:45. We have a reservation made, so make sure you rsvp (facebook invite) so that we know you’re coming! If you’re unfamiliar with the location of Kaleidoscope, meet us in the church parking lot, and we’ll carpool/caravan out there at 12:15.

Let the Games Begin!

2011-08-15T16:12:00.000-05:00

Finally some time just for MOM! It’s time to start another year of MOPS!

Join us for a kick-off night on Tuesday, September 6^th at 6:30 p.m. at Overland Park First Assembly of God to find out what’s new for this year.

Come meet the people at your table, learn about this year’s theme, discover how to work the new Moppets check-in computers, and have some crazy fun! Bring a snack to share!

Compelled By Love

2011-08-02T23:24:00.000-05:00

Join us for a study on the book CompelledBy Love by Ed Stetzer and Philip Nation on Wednesday nights from7:00-8:30 starting August 3, 2011 at Overland Park First Assembly of God.

“Missional living is what Eddescribes as ‘seeing yourself as in a missionary setting, even if you neverleave your neighborhood.’ Compelledby Love will give readers a basic theological grounding and aplatform for personal application as they understand what missional living isall about—it is simply the calling to love others. Look at the love of God;begin to truly understand what is at the center of the church’s foundation,commission, and direction; but most importantly, understand your role withinthe mission of God as you integrate love into all aspects of your missionalcalling.”

Childcare is available for free for children of all ages.

KidScape Play Date!

2011-08-01T13:33:00.000-05:00

Come play with us on Friday, August 12 at 10:00a.m.at KidScape (located inside Johnson County Museum: 6305 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KS). KidScape is a hands-on exhibit for kids, which is designedto look like a suburban streetscape allowing children to role-play in a colorful,exciting environment! KidScape offerssix environments in which to play: bookstore, park, City Hall, hospital,fashion boutique, and theater. Admissionis FREE!

It's time to Register!

2011-07-27T14:54:00.000-05:00

Hi Moms! It’s time toregister for the upcoming 2011-2012 MOPS year! Fill out the Registration Form and either email it to us (overlandparkmops@gmail.com) ordrop it off at the church. We’re busyplanning the upcoming year, and we’re so excited for our first meeting onThursday, September 8^th!

Pool Play Date at Bluejacket Pool

2011-07-21T14:13:00.000-05:00

Join us on Thursday, July 28th at 10a.m. for some pool fun at Bluejacket Pool (101st and Bond). Feel free to bring a sack lunch if you'd like to stay for awhile. Come have fun in one of the best baby pools in Overland Park (gated!, Hippo Slide, zero-depth entry, lots of awesome mom swimsuits)! See you then!

Antioch Park Play Date

2011-07-08T16:34:00.000-05:00

Join us for a “picnic at the park” play date on Thursday, July 14^th at 11:00a.m. at Antioch Park (6501 Antioch Road). We’ll meet at one of the shelters next to the playground that is located just to the west of the old western Dodge Town (look for our MOPS banner). Bring your own sandwich and drink…and bring a side to share (fruit, cookies, chips, etc.). We’ll have lunch at 11, and then we’ll play the rest of the day away!

VBS 2011

2011-07-02T00:26:00.000-05:00

It’s time for VBS!!!! July 18-22 from 9a.m.-11:45a.m.

Vacation Bible School is for kids 3 years old-incoming 5^th graders. This year’s theme of Hometown Nazareth: Where Jesus was a kid, will teach your children about the family, friends, neighbors, home and church that Jesus had in his hometown of Nazareth. Your child will experience Nazareth through music, crafts, games, snacks, story time with some wacky villagers, and a visit to “Mary’s House” each day!

Please pre-register so that the church can prepare and have plenty of supplies and snacks by filling out a VBS brochure which can be picked up in the church lobby or during Coffee playGround….or online at: http://www.opag.cc/

Pool Day at Marty Pool

2011-06-24T17:48:00.000-05:00

Join us this Thursday, June 30 @ 11:00a.m. for a play date at Marty Pool at 74^th and Conser (located on the street next to the church). Admission is $4 for residents and $5 for nonresidents of Overland Park. They’re open from 12-8p.m. (babypool opens at 10a.m. for kids under 6), so pack food and stay as long as you’d like. See you then!

Meet some of our MOPS moms!

2011-06-21T16:00:00.000-05:00

What incredible women we have in our group! Thanks to those willing to be in our video and share their advice!

Rockin' Rob at the Overland Park Farmer's Market

2011-06-21T14:10:00.000-05:00

Join us tomorrow, Wednesday, June 22 from 10:30-12:00 at Overland Park's Clock Tower as they host a free, musical event by Rockin' Rob for the kiddos. Make sure to let your kids wear their swimsuits under their clothes if they’re like mine and will end up playing in the water fountain. Downtown Overland Park is located west of Metcalf (a block or two) between 79^th and 80^th streets.

Free Wonderscope with Funky Mama Playdate!

2011-06-11T15:05:00.001-05:00

Ladies, join us on Friday, June 17^th at 10:00a.m for a free museum day at Wonderscope with a free concert by Funky Mama!!!! Invite all your mommy friends! If you have never been to this incredible children’s museum, visit their website: Wonderscope Museum. It’s quite impressive. See you then!!

Mani/Pedi Spa Night!

2011-06-01T12:11:00.000-05:00

Join us as we reserve Nail Perfection and Spa to enjoy some girl time and get pampered a bit on Thursday, June 9^th at 7:00p.m.!
Manicure....$15
Pedicure.....$25
Mani/Pedi Combo.......$38
Make sure to reserve your spot as there is a head-count limit. RSVP on our FB page our contact us at: overlandparkmops@gmail.com

Nail Perfection and Spa

5100 Johnson Dr.

Mission, KS

Deanna Rose Summer Play Date!

2011-06-01T11:28:00.000-05:00

Join us for a summer play date at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead on Thursday, June 9^th at 10a.m. Invite a new mom to come with you. We’ll meet right outside the front entrance and then go in together. Admission is free on Thursdays, so you’ll only need money if you choose to mine for gold, bottle feed the baby goats, go fishing, take a pony ride, etc. Bring a sack lunch if you’d like to eat with us at one of the pavilions. More info can be found at: Deanna Rose Farmstead

Vanilla Extract Making

2011-05-20T23:43:00.000-05:00

Tired of paying big bucks for vanilla extract? Join us on Thursday, June 2^nd at 6:30p.m. as we (seriously) are going to be making homemade vanilla!! The finished product will be ready in 6 months …just in time for Christmas Gifts!

Here’s what you’ll need to bring:

1. Vodka- each 1.75 liter container of vodka is needed for each ½ gallon of vanilla that you want to make.

2. ½ gallon or gallon GLASS JAR (large pickle jar).

3. Vanilla Beans- 1 lb. of vanilla beans is enough to make 1 ½ gallons of vanilla extract. Vanilla beans can be ordered at http://www.olivenation.com/

Look for your Facebook Invite to sign-up. See you soon!

Girl's Night Out

2011-05-01T23:52:00.000-05:00

Join us for a Girl’s Night Out event on Friday, May 6th at 7:00p.m. at Overland Park First Assembly of God. Kerry Clarensau, the National Women’s Ministry Director for the Assemblies of God, will be sharing a special message on mothering. This event is for all females (regardless of age), so bring yourself, your mom, your sister, your friends, etc. Also, bring your favorite dessert to share! See you then!

In addition, we will be starting our Wednesday night Bible Study on May 11th with Kerry Clarensau's new book: Secrets: Transforming Your Life and Marriage. Visit http://www.secretsbiblestudy.com/ for more info on her book. Join us every Wednesday evening for the next 8 weeks from 7-8:30p.m. as we learn secrets to better our marriages. Free childcare is available.

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-20T12:11:00.000-05:00

Unbirthday

2011-04-18T22:29:00.000-05:00

Now, statistics prove, prove that you've one birthday
Imagine, just one birthday every year.
Ah, but there are three hundred and sixty four unbirthdays!
Precisely why we're gathered here to cheer.
A very merry unbirthday to you! –Alice in Wonderland

Join us on Thursday, April 28^th @ 9:00a.m. to celebrate everyone’s unbirthday! We’ll have cake and presents, along with expert advice on throwing the perfect birthday party from Christina Light. Brunch will be provided by the Cassatt and DNA Tables.

MOPS Garage Sale

2011-04-10T22:28:00.001-05:00

It’s time to DECLUTTER your house in an effort to benefit Overland Park MOPS.

The Annual MOPS Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, April 16^th from 7a.m.-2p.m. at Overland Park First Assembly of God (7700 W. 75^th St, O.P., KS 66204).

Donation drop off will be on both April 14^thand 15^th. Please contact the church office at (913) 432-3281 before dropping off large items, such as appliances.

Favorite Things

2011-03-16T16:57:00.000-05:00

You are invited to a "Favorite Things" exchange party on Thursday, March 24 from 9-11:15a.m.!

We all have that special something that just makes life a little more pleasant (e.g., a nerve-calming lotion, a fabulous accessory, a must- have kitchen gadget, etc.). Please bring one of your favorite things to swap. There is a $10 limit.

Brunch will be provided by the Cassatt and DNA Tables.

BUNCO FEVER!

2011-03-03T23:12:00.000-06:00

Mom's Night Out!

2011-02-24T17:19:00.000-06:00

First Aide

2011-02-16T22:43:00.001-06:00

Do you know what to do if your child had a foreign object in his/her eye, nose, or ear? Do you know what steps to take if there is a dislocation or broken bone? What about snakebites, chemical burns, poisoning, heatstroke, human bites, puncture wounds, severe bleeding, shock,…..now I’m all freaked out! Come learn some first aide skills that will make you the hero when the next accident strikes at the playground. First Aide Guru, Jeff Johnson, will be sharing his wealth of knowledge with us on Thursday, Feb. 24^th. Oh yeah, and the President of MOPS, Shelly Radic, will be visiting our meeting......that's kind of a HUGE deal! I'll make sure to wear my spanx and lipgloss!

Valentine's Party at Coffee playGround

2011-02-04T09:55:00.000-06:00

Bring a sack lunch and join us at Coffee playGround for a Valentine’s party on Monday, Feb. 14th! We will have our normal open gym hours from 10-1, and the party will start at 11:30. Bring unaddressed valentine cards (signed by your child) and a decorated box in which to receive valentines. We will be serving cupcakes, so feel free to bring an additional snack to share (if you feel like being an overachiever)!

Married Couples Panel

2011-02-04T08:40:00.002-06:00

Join us on Thursday, Feb. 10th as we hear about the struggles and triumphs of marriage. We have some incredible couples lined up to be on our panel. Come experience personal and real relationships from which we might be able to take a grain of wisdom home with us(or a whole bag full).

Yea for Saving Money!

2011-01-18T22:19:00.000-06:00

Yes, this could be the button that you don after our next MOPS meeting on Thursday, January 27. The creator of Kansas City Mamas is coming to teach us about everything we’ll need to know about couponing: finding coupons, creating price books, stockpiling, rebates, organizing coupons, and general couponing terminology! Make sure to visit her website www.kansascitymamas.com and “Like” her on FB!

Invite your friends….this will be tons of fun!

Candle Lighting Ceremony and Toy/Book Swap

2011-01-05T13:15:00.000-06:00

Our next meeting on Thursday, January 13 will be our annual candle lighting ceremony. Think of something special that has happened to you this last year that you’d like to share with the rest of the group.

We will also be having a toy and book swap, so bring in any toys/books that are in good condition that you no longer use (or that you’d just like to get out of the house)!

Christmas Ornament Exchange

2010-12-06T15:26:00.001-06:00

Please join us for our annual ornament exchange on Thursday, December 9th. If you are not familiar with this, please bring a wrapped ornament to exchange. We will also have a short devotion from one of our former mentor moms.

The Davinci and Monet tables are to bring brunch. Looking forward to seeing you!

Christmas Tea

2010-11-11T22:54:00.000-06:00

Join us on Friday, December 3^rd at 7:00 p.m. for an annual Christmas Tea in the activity center at Overland Park First Assembly of God. The activity center will be filled with dozens of fancy tables dressed in fine china and Christmas décor.

If you’ve always wanted a reason to get out and use your china, stems, and flatware; then volunteer to host a table. Otherwise, just show up with a plate of your favorite Christmas treat to share.

This year’s message is “Tell Me Your Story….” We will hear the stories of some incredible women, and we’ll be challenged to look at the stories that we’re telling with our lives (whether we realize it or not). We hope to see you there!!

Service Project

2010-11-08T22:53:00.000-06:00

During our next MOPS meeting on Thursday, November 11^th, we will be making fleece-tie blankets to donate to our local school nurses. Come with hands ready to tie, tie, and tie some more! This will also be our last collection day for Operation Christmas Child and Harvesters. Brunch will be provided by your lovely steering team!

Lejla's Story - Operation Christmas Child

2010-10-28T22:14:00.000-05:00

Operation Christmas Child

2010-10-27T23:42:00.000-05:00

What holiday traditions are you incorporating into your Christmas season? What values are you instilling in your children? There’s no better way to teach our children the message of giving and of Christ’s love than by providing them with the experience of creating a box for Operation Christmas Child.

Please bring your wrapped box full of goodies to our MOPS meeting on Thursday, November 11^th.

Click here for instructions on filling and wrapping your box!

Holiday Bazaar

2010-10-14T20:41:00.000-05:00

Costume Swap!

2010-10-14T18:59:00.000-05:00

Inspired from our last MOPS meeting on repurposing furniture (and other items), the idea of having a costume swap was generated. Is money a little tight this year? Tired of paying outrageous prices for poorly made costumes? Looking for a way to go-green and reuse costumes? Come to the coffee playground on Monday, Oct. 18 with your costumes from Halloweens past and go home with a new-to-you costume. If you plan on bringing costumes, please arrive by 11:00 a.m. See you then!

Free Museum Day

2010-09-23T17:44:00.000-05:00

The Smithsonian is sponsoring a free museum day this coming Saturday, Sept. 25. If you go to the following site Smithsonian Museum Day you can choose which Kansas City Museum you’d like to visit. Each free ticket is good for two people. We’re going to hit up Wonderscope! It would be fun to see you there too!

Bra and Shape Wear Event!!

2010-09-21T01:13:00.002-05:00

We all know that by finding and wearing the right size bra, you could look 10, even 20, pounds lighter. We also know that there are lots of shape wear products to help in eliminating the hotdogs and muffin tops. However, have you ever felt lost when looking for the perfect bra or shape wear? Come and get educated by the Bra and Shape Wear Gurus at Nordstroms on Thursday, October 7^thfrom 6:30-9:00. We will initially meet in the café (on the 3^rd floor) at 6:30p.m. before being escorted to our classroom where we’ll get educated on the latest technology and products available. After that, we’ll get to spend the rest of the time being fitted for that perfect bra and trying on products to solve our individual “problems.” Feel free to bring an article of clothing/outfit that you would like to try with bra and shape wear solutions. In addition, the cosmetics department is putting together a make-up gift package for one lucky lady!!

Cupcake and Cake Decorating!

2010-09-21T00:28:00.002-05:00

Join us in learning about the art and science of decorating cupcakes/cakes on Thursday, September 23 from 9:00-11:15. Not only will we get expert advice, demonstrations, and decorating tips; but we'll also be able to practice/perfect our skills (and eat a cupcake or two...or three).

Come for a chance to win a cupcake carrier and a cupcake/cake decorating set!!! yippy!

Holiday Bazaar

2010-09-17T23:28:00.000-05:00

Are you dissatisfied with attending craft fairs that are catered to stenciled-heart-collecting women? Do you have a really neat artistic ability, service, or craft that you’d like to try and perhaps sell? Then please sign up for the Holiday Bazaar which will be held October 23 from 10-3 in the gym at Overland Park First Assembly of God. The only cost to you is $20, which will secure you a table for your goods to be displayed and, most importantly, a delicious sloppy joe meal…right, I know…yummy! We only have a few tables left. To reserve your table contact us at: overlandparkmops@gmail.com

*and if you can create the above necklace, then we'll throw in a second sloppy joe meal!

The Great Midwest Balloon Fest

2010-09-16T13:58:00.000-05:00

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Take the family to see some real hot air balloons in action at The Great Midwest Balloon Fest in Overland Park (167th and Antioch). The balloon fest will take place Friday-Sunday, Sept. 17-19 with free admission and $5 for parking.
For more information go to: http://www.greatmidwestballoonfest.org/

Build background knowledge by going to the local library and checking out books such as the following:

The amazing air balloon Author: Van Leeuwen, Jean.

Mouton's impossible dream 1st ed. Author: McGrory, Anik.

Work on story retell by taking pictures of the event while you're there and pasting them into powerpoint to create a picture book (you can add words through print or audio). You can then print the book or keep it on the computer for your child to view.

Funky Mama Concert

2010-09-05T20:24:00.000-05:00

Overland Park MOPS presents:

Funky Mama

September 30, 2010 at 10:00 a.m.

Overland Park First Assembly of God

7700 W. 75th St., Overland Park, KS 66204

Bring your kids and your friends.....

It's FREE!!!!!

Afterwards, inflatables will be set up, and we'll be serving a hotdog, chips, and drink for $1.50.
Feel free to hang out, play, and eat!

This Year's Theme

2010-08-18T17:22:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the 2010-2011 MOPS year! Our theme this year is Momology: The Art and Science of Mothering. Let’s face it-- Mothering has forced us into utilizing both sides of our brains in order to figure out how to mother our children. What works for one child doesn’t for another; what works one day won’t work the next. Therefore, we have to be creative; we have to look at research; we have to ask for advice; and sometimes, we just have to wing it when mothering our children.

The other day I was laughing and confessing to my friends that for my first child I collected data on everything: the amount of milk she drank, her nap times, her behaviors, etc. (and I even entered it into graphs). At that time, that was all I knew to do; I came from the science and medical world, so that naturally influenced how I took care of my child. Now with my second child, I have no clue how much she drinks, when she takes naps,…we don’t even have a bedtime for her. Instead of staying home in order to allow for perfect nap times and my collection of data, we’re out and about; we’re exploring the world. Mothering changes how you do things over time. You may start out either scientifically or artistically minded, but over time, usually due to necessity, you figure out how to tap into the other side of your brain.

Okay, here comes my science side… The corpus callosum is a wide, flat bundle of axons that connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres (sides of the brain). Our science, math, and language abilities are primarily located on the left side, while the artistic/creative abilities are on the right side. Some research has found that the corpus callosum is often wider in the brains of women than in those of men. This wider bridge between the two sides of the brain may allow for greater cross-talk between the hemispheres—possibly the basis for women’s intuition. I’m almost convinced that our corpus callosum must double in size when we become mothers! Our ability to cross over into our non-dominant sphere allows us the greatest ability to problem-solve, manipulate, and multitask. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from mothering, each day presents us with new situations in which we need to think outside of the box.

This year, we will look at the art and science of mothering from decorating cupcakes, Funky Mama concerts, and repurposing furniture to organic vs. conventional foods, first aide, and the science behind finding the perfect bra and shapewear! One obligatory component in finding the perfect balance between the art and science of mothering is connecting. Building friendships is vital to our ability not only to survive this phase of our lives but to flourish and excel. We are glad you’re here! We need you! This is going to be a great year!!

-Laura

Getting Started

2010-08-11T15:41:00.002-05:00

God has great things in store!!!