As parents, if we can get children's habits working for us, it takes some of the stress out of parenting. Bedtime struggles come at a particularly bad time of the day, when most parents are already fatigued and not showing the best side of their parenting. Accustom your children to falling asleep and waking up at the same times every day. This might include a warm bath, followed by story-time once the children are snuggled in. If they earn enough stars by the end of the week, let them do something special, like choosing a video the family will rent.
New habits are hard to develop, but they're worth it.
We just moved to Idaho from the Midwest and are wondering which perennials are best suited to our alkaline soils. Fortunately, you've got some excellent plants to choose from, says Wayne Jones, University of Idaho extension educator. Not only will they perform very nicely, but they'll fill your landscape with terrific colors. For more spring planting ideas, consult the Cooperative Extension educator or Master Gardener program in your county, or visit a local nursery that's experienced in growing and selling plants in your area. Both are good sources of information on plants that do well under our more difficult growing conditions.