A New Leas On Life

Shop-a-holics Anonymous Please!

2011-05-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have a problem. At least I'm not in denial about it. I think I'm going to need a shop-a-holics anonymous group. It's not your typical buy-something-every-day kind of habit. More of a binging behavior.

I've always SAID I don't have any kind of addictive personality, but I'm thinking I might. But it comes in waves with different things. Maybe it's like an ADD Addictive Personality Disorder. Where you can only keep your focus on one addiction for a short period of time. Does that sound good? I'll just go with that - seems like everyone has to have a diagnosis these days and I'm going to self-diagnose myself with that. Are you good with that?

Okay, so back to the shopping. I don't know why, but I'm always buying something. Sometimes something BIG but mostly small things. Clothes, shoes, makeup, shoes, office supplies, shoes, CDs, did I say shoes?

On Sunday, I went shopping with my sister for some new work clothes. I was inspired by some of my internet gal pals as we were sharing our tastes and ideas for where to get decent clothes. I also realized last week that I needed to find some clothes I'm comfortable wearing that will hide my jiggly-wigglies for work. Luckily, we were on a time constraint or I don't know HOW much more money I would've spent. Then of course, I went home and ordered four pairs of shoes from Crocs. Yikes! Problem, much?

I guess I better hide the credit cards.

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-08T23:58:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe how fast time flies! Another year, another Mother's Day. I can't believe I'm somebody's MOM. I don't know why, but that sounds so OLD to me. Most days I still feel like I'm my twenty-something self, even though I know I'm not.

Having a little Bear Cub has changed my world so much - I've struggled with my new role but I feel each day things get better and I can look at yesterday and say "take that"!

As I think about the role a Mother plays in someone's life, I think about my own Mom - and her influence on me and my siblings. I think about how HARD of a job it is and wonder - why do we need a day to celebrate and appreciate Moms? Shouldn't this be EVERY DAY? Shouldn't we show appreciation to our Moms every day?

I like to think I try to always thank my mom for everything she does for me, my son and my husband and to tell her and show her that I love her. That she IS appreciated. Some days may be better than others, but I know in my heart that she does a TREMENDOUS job being a Mom. I can only hope that I'm doing that great of a job for my son.

Happy Mother's Day to my wonderful Mom... and to all the Moms out there!

Wow, really?

2011-01-09T23:11:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe the last time I blogged was in August. Whew! Boy, a lot has happened since then and LOOK! Now we're in a new year. How'd THAT happen?

Well, as a start of the new year, I'll be looking to do a blog makeover for both me and Cubby and work on blogging more. I miss writing and sharing my thoughts. I still have much to write and share about with my Vietnam trip (I know, how awful - that was more than a year ago!) and just life changes (changed jobs again!).

But for now, just a little post to say HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! 2011, I'm so glad you're here!

Dear Dad...

2010-08-25T11:56:00.000-07:00

It has been nine years. NINE YEARS to the day that you left us. Left us for some place peaceful and where you can watch over us.

Everyday, there is at least one moment that you come into my mind, and my heart twinges with fond memories and the love I shared with you. But I cannot write this post without tears today.

Today I feel sad. Why today after nine years today is especially hard is beyond me. I excuse myself at weddings when the bride dances with her father because it hurts that I never got to share that with you. But I know you were there, looking down on me on our wedding day. My husband carries so many of the great qualities that you have, I can't help thinking and wondering if you had a small hand on bringing him into my life shortly after you were gone.

My son carries your name. I gave him your name, so one day he will know how much you meant to me, what a great man you were and what an honor it is to share your name. My heart is saddened that you won't know him and he'll only have "memories" that I share with him of you. Sad that he won't be able to experience the love and affection that you gave to me and shared with us kids and grandkids that knew you.

Some days I feel robbed - robbed of the time I would've had with you. Remembering the times we shared and thinking of the times we could have shared.

I know that life is not infinite - that each of us has our time when we must pass on. Today, I feel your time came too soon for me. Today, my heart aches and tears flow without restraint. I miss you Daddy... I miss you so much and I wish you were still here to share in the love and joy of my son and my life.

May your soul continue to rest in peace. I love you always...

Christmas in July!

2010-07-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

About five months into my pregnancy, I joined Babycenter. It's a website targeted towards parents-to-be and parents. I spent HOURS on this site, checking up on the progression of my pregnancy (how Cubby was growing) and even joined the BabyCenter Community where I found other first-time parents (moms mostly)-to-be like me. My birth board and the small group I joined was (is) my lifeline when I need someone to share in my challenges and triumphs as a first time mom.

As time as progressed, I started joining other boards on the Community and now belong to an awesome group of "crunchy"-like Mamas like myself. So one of the awesome Mamas put together a "Christmas in July" gift exchange which of course I hopped on board to participate in. How FUN to get a present in the middle of the year just because! Thank you to the CMT gals and for letting me into your group! Here's my AWESOME gift I got (excuse the blurry shots, I had to include 'em because of the action):

So here I was setting up a shot and what comes in? Cubby's stealth-like hand!

Take two: Once again, setting up the shot and before I know it....one was gone!

He finally just climbed up on the table to play with HIS new toys:

As I attempted to take them away and grab Cubby off the table, screaming ensued with a lot of "Mine! Mine!", so I just gave them back to him for a little bit...

Yep. Definitely not MY Christmas in July. *giggling*

A New Love

2010-07-08T08:17:00.000-07:00

Isn't love amazing? You always think you've found THE ONE LOVE and then something else comes along, unexpectedly and grabs your heart... You can never have too much love in your life. It just makes the world brighter and the flowers smell sweeter!

As I get older, my tastes change and I'm more discerning on what I choose to buy. I mean, eons ago I was complacent to buy cheapie purses anywhere I went (Target, Mervyn's (now nonexistent), etc.) and I would just BALK at the thought of spending more than $40 on one! Not to mention, as rough as I am on purses - I can't see "throwing away" much more than that every month or so (yes, I was buying a new purse about every month back then). EEEK! Now, you'll find me hauling ass to the Coach outlet and spending slightly more than $40 on a purse or wallet (EEEK!).

Let's move on to shoes. I have a love-hate relationship with shoes. I just LOVE how beautiful and elegant they can look but hate the fact I have HUGE, F-A-T, FLAT feet. I only wish I could don a pair of strappy sandals with heels and run amuck a-la-Carrie-Bradshaw style, but I can't. Five minutes into wearing a pair, the balls of my feet are turning numb and I'm wobbling like an amateur carnie on stilts. Just my luck that I've been relegated to wearing flats like flip-flops, tennies and the like. Occasionally I can find a pair of wedges or low to mid heeled dress shoes with the right height to length ratio that won't kill my feet. When I do find those, I buy them up in every color (or multiple pairs in the same color) so I won't be caught in a bind when I pull them out of the box in the closet and realized I've worn them so much they've fallen apart.

Let's face it - as I'm aging, comfort is starting to take precedence over "cute" and it's hard to find shoes that are comfortable AND cute without bordering on the old school granny-like thick soled nursing shoes. But alas, by taking a chance - I have found at least ONE pair that still is "hip" AND comfortable. So much so, I am claiming LOVE to this new shoe.

Now, the reason I took a chance on this new brand is that I bought a pair of flips first - they were an INCREDIBLE deal and I figured - why not? As soon as I got these flips, I ripped open the package and immediately put them on and have worn them EVERY.SINGLE.DAY since. They were so comfortable, I do not even hesitate walking long distances in them - as my feet don't get sore at the end of the day like my traditional Old Navy flips do (yes, I just about have one in every color from Old Navy).

So I thought, if their flips are THIS comfortable, what about their other shoes? I'll be honest. I'm not a fan of their "traditional" shoe, the one they are famous for but now they carry all kinds of styles - so I managed to find the style I traditionally love - and armed with a 20% off coupon code, took a risk and ordered three pairs! EEK! Now, what shoe/brand is this you ask? I'll tell you:

CROCS

Yep. I know some of you hear that and you think of this:

I think they look absolutely U-G-L-Y and I'm sure they will make my feet look even bigger than they already are but those aren't the only style they have!

They have these:

and these:

and of course the style I love so much - THESE:

I also ordered two other pairs exactly like this but without the fun decor - one each in "Espresso" and black. When the box arrived I hurried and opened it and immediately put on a pair. Just so happened, the next day I was headed out to a Baby Welcoming so I donned a dress just so I could wear them and give them a test run.

VERDICT: I never knew I was wearing a heeled shoe - they were so comfortable, it felt like I was barefoot!!!

Here are a few pics of the gorgeous, yet oh-so-comfy pair that I wore (please ignore the poor lighting and so-so pics. They were taken with my phone):

Oh... I'm in HEAVEN. What else can I say? How about

"CROCS... I ♥LOVE♥ YOU!!"

Fourth of July

2010-07-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

The Fourth of July is an overlooked holiday in my calendar. When ever I'm asked in one of those random e-mail survey thingamabobbers what my favorite holiday is, I NEVER think to answer the Fourth of July/American Independence Day. The truth is, I love this day.

I think it is a great holiday and we should all take time to give thanks to all of those who serve and have served in the military branches and to their families who are also making sacrifices for us civilians. Our country would not be what it is without those who find honor in serving America. To those of you, I thank you. From the bottom of my heart for doing what you do everyday to allow me the freedom to post this blog, tweet my heart out and Facebook my friends to death with Mafia Wars game requests.

The reason I love this day so much is because I think I'm a closet pyromaniac. I use this term very loosely because in no way would I want to purposely destroy something belonging to someone else or could risk the possibility of great harm to any one person. But every year, I find myself headed to the fireworks stand to buy, buy, buy!

Times are tough this year, so I scaled back in the choosing of fireworks but between me and my mother, we spent about $200. This is actually probably piddly considering past years and the massive amounts of firepower we hoarded back in the day.

My mom and I are thrilled with the prospect of lighting up fireworks to see the colors, sparkles and to hear the whistles. This year was Cubby's first time trying out sparklers and I was thrilled! He did GREAT with our little show and we even started with it still being light out. (Unfortunately, I left the job of capturing our memories up to E and he stuck with what he knew - and videoed snippets instead of taking still photos. See the link above to see a video of Cubby with his sparkler.) We ended at about 9:30ish and Cubby was already headed to Sleepville. No crying or anything.

So there you have it! A short summary of our day yesterday - check out Cub's blog for more!

Ramblings of a Hurt Heart

2010-06-22T10:08:00.000-07:00

I feel that I'm honest. Sometimes brutally honest. I appreciate someone with this same quality. Because I KNOW they'll call me on my sh*t. After all, doesn't everyone need SOMEONE to call them on their sh*t, even if it's only once in a while?

There's no such thing as perfect. It's a relative term used and applied as the speaker sees fit. It's a difficult term because even though we all know and say and *believe* there's no such thing as perfect - that's what we strive for. What is perfection?

Change. There is only a couple of things guaranteed in life. Living, changing, dying. We know this but why is it so hard to adapt to change? Learn to be flexible? Learn to be forgiving? We have one shot at this life. We should make the most of it and enjoy the ride, right?

We all have internal "demons". Some of us find it pretty easy to keep those demons in check, where others have lost control of them. Demons left uncontrolled can wreak havoc in your world and destroy everything you love/want/have. These demons close us off from our true self and entice us to be selfish.

Selfishness is isolating. Lonely. It closes you off to the people around you and closes your heart to love. It destroys the relationships you have and leaves no path for reconciliation if carried on for too long.

I feel like giving up. Giving up because it's easier - easier to heal my hurt heart and move on with life. Move towards more positive energy and the good moments. I know life isn't always easy and there are moments and situations that test your strength, integrity and resolve for doing the right thing.

For now, I move forward with hope. Hope that what once was, can be again - and the sun will shine down upon us as we embrace the changes and cast off the demons.

Winner of Goat Milk Soap Giveaway!

2010-06-21T13:31:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who entered this giveaway. If you haven't tried it, you really should - goat milk soap is fabulous as is the family behind Goat Milk Stuff!

Due to a redraw*, the winner is Crissy!

All that twice daily tweeting paid off! She won with this tweet:

Crissy has been contacted and confirmed as the winner!

She will be receiving three free bars of this luxurious Goat Milk Soap,
one each in Oatmeal Milk & Honey, Black Raspberry & Cucumber Melon!

Congrats Crissy!

*ALL entries are verified before awarding a winner. Original winner was not a blog follower as required.

Bootcamp!

2010-06-03T10:40:00.000-07:00

Each new year is time for reflection of things past and a look toward the future. When I turned to look forward, I saw a more "fit" me. So I joined a fitness bootcamp. This sounds EXTREME doesn't it? Well, it IS!! However, if you know me at all, this really isn't. I'm the type of person who is generally at one end of the spectrum or another when it comes to most everything. Not to mention my absolute bestie bloggy Mama friend, Megan at Newlywed, Newlybred inspired me by her attempt over at Death by Bootcamp along with her friend Jess over at Finding Joy in the Journey.

I had no idea what to expect other than the fact that I may die on my first or second day. It really did sound like it was tough. That's EXACTLY what need to get my flabby self into gear! It's do or die time!

Here's how the bootcamp I joined was laid out. It was a six-week, four times a week program. Not just fitness but also nutrition guidance. Monday through Thursday with Mondays & Wednesdays outdoors "running" and Tuesdays & Thursdays strength training indoors. First of all, I don't run. I DESPISE running. Plus it's no fun to have all of your flab slosh around.

At least it wasn't a REQUIREMENT to run, but we had to at least get our heart rate up so most of the time, I did some speed-walking with intermittent "running" and a lot of limping. The first day of strength training - I thought I was going to PUKE. I have never EVER thought I would PUKE from exercising. Luckily, I saved face by high-tailing it to the bathroom and was able to get a "break" from torturing my flabby-self.

Fortunately, it did get easier and by the end of the six weeks I felt strong and had lost some inches overall but not much weight. Not a big deal because I felt stronger and I felt a little better about myself. I only wish I could've kept up the schedule but it was hard.

The days I had bootcamp, I saw Cubby for a maximum total of 2 hours per day. By the end of the six weeks, I was missing him SO much that I decided to try and keep up some sort of schedule on my own of exercising. Unfortunately, that hasn't worked so well but at least I know I CAN do it and when I do have the time, I try to squeeze in at least a mile or two walk. Cubby loves his new stroller I won (that's another blog post coming soon) so it's always fun to take him with me when the weather permits.

So... any of you ever try the bootcamp thing or something else extreme to jump start your weight loss goal? Inquiring minds want to know!

Got Soap? Review & Giveaway (6/20) CLOSED

2010-06-02T19:46:00.000-07:00

WINNER CONFIRMED

I have eczema. When I was pregnant with Cub, it was one of the things I worried about most for him. Having "sensitive" skin and dealing with it for his entire life. Unfortunately, worry or not - because I have it, he had a greater chance of getting it and of course, he did. I really tried my best to register for bath and body products for "sensitive skin" and of course it is one of the main reasons I decided to try cloth diapering for Cub in the first place, but that's another post for another day.

So, one of the things we've had trouble with is the whole bathing/soap/lotion thing. Of course, if you have eczema you know that one of the recommendations is bathing more infrequently. We bathe Cub every night. Soap ALWAYS on his "manly" parts but maybe just a rinse on the rest of his body depending on our activities for the day to try to minimize drying out his skin. But no matter how you slice it, we HAVE to lotion him EVERY NIGHT because of this.

This year, my own eczema has taken a turn for the worse and I'm trying everything under the sun to keep it under control. Upon the recommendation of a friend, I decided to try some Goat Milk Soap. I had never heard of the stuff and I googled and browsed for a while before I decided to buy. When I placed my order for the first time, I got a very good vibe from PJ - as I, of course, e-mailed her first asking a ton of questions! Amazing what kind of vibe you can get just from e-mail! I felt confident in my soap selections and thought even if the soap didn't work out, I wasn't wasting my money. I purchased a Fiji Luffa and a bar of Purity for me and Cubby to try.

When I received my order, I was surprised with three little samples of other ~~flavors~~ scents to try! I sniffed the Fiji Luffa and the Purity bar and promptly replaced my Lever2000 bar of soap with the Purity. Initially, I thought the smell of Purity, which is unscented, smelled a little weird but what the heck - I was going to give it a try! Now, I LOVE the smell! It's such a great natural scent!

First thing I noticed about the bar was that it didn't lather as much or as quickly as what I was normally used to. But I did LOVE the way it felt on my skin and it didn't irritate! Not even one little itch or burn! And using it over an entire week proved that it helped keep my eczema under control! I was hooked!! I discovered that if you want your soap to last longer, don't leave it sitting in water. I also found that the soaps don't "meld" together if you're trying to save the small sliver and add it to the next bar (but they have a solution for that!). So far, I have loved EVERY bar of soap we've used and I can't wait to order more!

(A full size bar, travel size and sample)

PJ and her entire family have been making soap for a few years and everyone has a specific job. Here is a small excerpt from their website about the Jonas family:

"Now, what we have to say next may not be “PC.” But, we’re not about PC, we’re about JC. We seek to honor Jesus in all that we do and that plays a big role in our family and our business. Our children are taught "everything is a God issue" — including making and selling soap. We believe these values come through in the goodness of our products and we hope you will agree.

We live in rural Indiana on a 3 acre homestead where we homeschool our eight children. Our small herd of Alpine dairy goats roams the pasture in the back. At various times in the past we've also had a dairy cow, sheep, turkeys, chickens, bees, rabbits, and pigs. But, we’ve found these animals, while beautiful in God’s eyes, don’t necessarily make great soap so we’ve chosen to simplify and go with the goats.

Colter, our oldest son is our company’s CFM (Chief Family Milker). He usually gets up before anyone (even Jim) and goes out to milk. He does a great job and all the goats love him – we haven’t heard a single complaint yet!

PJ's adventures into soapmaking originated five years ago out of her desire to not use chemicals on the children’s skin. Since she enjoyed making soap and was so impressed with its quality, she turned it into a family business. In 2008, Goat Milk Stuff was born, and PJ has since drafted the entire family into her adventures. From the initial milking of the goats to the final bagging of the soap, all our goat milk soaps are handmade by the members of our family.

The smell of sweet success is probably the best part of our business. The hard work of our family lingers in the wonderful scents that grace our home (and when you have so many boys, a little help in the scent department is a huge benefit!) I tell people, drop by anytime. I can’t guarantee the house will be clean but I promise it will smell good!"

I love buying handmade items, especially from WAHMs because I know my money is going towards the support of them and their family and not for any shady or despicable product innovation.

So have you given natural/homemade soap a try? Want to?

Buy It!

You can get these bars of awesomeness over at Goat Milk Stuff!

Win It!

PJ is generously offering one of my lucky readers THREE bars of soap in scents of their choosing!

Mandatory Entry

(if this is not done, none of the additional entries will count!):

You must follow my blog and head over to Goat Milk Stuff - tell me what other product you'd like to try AND what scents you would choose if you won!

Additional Entries

(must complete mandatory entry first before you can gain additional entries -

must leave separate comments for each qualifying entry):

Follow these blogs publicly via Google Friend Connect (1 entry per blog)

A New Leas on Life

It's a Cub's World

Yes, I'm shamelessly plugging Cubby's blog -

don't you want to know what my adorable Cub is up to?

Goat Milk Soapers

Subscribe to any or all of the blogs via e-mail if available (must be verified) (1 entry per blog)

Grab a button from each blog and come back and post the link to where I can find it (2 entries per button)

"Like" Goat Milk Stuff on Facebook (1 entry) and comment that you do - leave your name for verification.

Follow Goat Milk Soapers on Networked Blogs through Facebook (1 entry) and comment that you do - leave your name for verification.

Blog about this giveaway and include a link here, Goat Milk Stuff and Goat Milk Soapers. (2 entries).

Follow these peeps on Twitter (1 entry per Tweep follow) and come back here to comment and leave your TwitterID:

nikinic29

CubsMamma

Goat Milk Stuff

Tweet about this giveaway 2x a day, at least 4 hours apart - must include @goatmilkstuff @nikinic29 #green #giveaway and a link back to this post or use this: Looking for a more natural soap? Try @goatmilkstuff! Review & #giveaway from @nikinic29 http://bit.ly/c7uukX
Leave your permalink!

BONUS: Find the solution to the "problem" I mentioned above - the first person who e-mails me the correct answer will get 5 extra entries! - Edited 6/3: BONUS HAS BEEN CLAIMED!

Fine print: I was not provided any product for this review. I bought this product at a recommendation of a friend, opinions are my own. PJ generously offered to accompany my review with a giveaway. Giveaway runs until 6/20/10 10pm PST. Winner selected by random.org and winning entries will be verified. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize, or a new winner may be selected. Please be sure your email is on your blogger profile, or leave me a way to contact you.

It's Been a While...

2010-04-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

Some of you who are following me aren't real avid blog readers and I haven't really blogged in a while. I have more posts about Vietnam to finish - and some other life things that I've had to deal with/struggle with. Truthfully, I'm online every day (I'm an addict!) and in-between, I try to spend as much time as I can with Cubby. I'm going to try to get back to doing weekly memes and blogging regularly so you'll know what's going on with me.

Wishing you a "Hoppy" Easter!!

Wordless Wednesday : Happy Family

2010-03-30T22:09:00.000-07:00

A Common Goal: Weight Loss

2010-01-13T14:37:00.000-08:00

Every year, thousands upon thousands of people make this pledge. Gym membership & attendance goes up, grocery carts of "healthier" foods start flying out the store and you start to see more people walking/running/bicycling around the neighborhood. Yep. It's the new year goal for a lot of people each year. For many, this is short lived. It is very hard to start something "new" and fad diets only work for a short time. The key to successful weight loss and healthier living is a consistent change in lifestyle. But I'm no expert. After all, if I was I still wouldn't be a size 14, carrying around 170 odd pounds of whatever with me.

But this year is different for me. I joined a fitness bootcamp and I believe in encouraging and supporting others who want to also make this change. I like to hear how others are doing what I want to do and how successful (or not) they are and what works (or doesn't). So in support of Katie over at thinkPINK, I'm showing my love and support for her 75 to 0 campaign!

If you don't already follow her, you should! She's very insightful and REAL. So let's hear it for Katie and all those of us who are doing our part to become healthier and happy!

2010: A New Year

2010-01-12T14:04:00.000-08:00

I just realized I hadn't posted since last year. Woah! Doesn't that sound like a long time ago? In reality, it has only been about 12 days. Normally, I have my new year post already done - it would not have taken me 12 days to realize I haven't done it - but you know how it is, right? With a 14 month old around?

Well, I started this year off with some changes. I started back to work full-time (which is only 5 more days a month at this point, due to the furloughs - thank you, Governator). I am looking forward to being retrained but so far, I feel as I'm unfocused because I miss Cubby so much.

I joined a fitness bootcamp. This is solely for me. I was starting to feel like I was overwhelmed, drained, drowning in my life's responsibilities and I need something for ME. Something for me to feel good about myself and something I can strive for. I want to be a role model for my son for healthy living and making good healthy choices.

I want to continue to surround myself with people who can bring light into my life. People who inspire, people who are grounded and people who can slap me around when I need it. I want to be surrounded by people who WANT to be a part of my life. I want to love and be loved. I want to be a better person, woman, wife, mother, sister, daughter.

Most of all, I just want to feel like ME again.

Goodbye & HELLO!

2009-12-31T17:50:00.000-08:00

I have never been SO done with a year before in my life. I am so ready to give 2009 a steel-toed boot in the ass and tell it get lost! Overall, this year has been a MESS with a few sparkly clean glimpses of what could be through the window.

It has been a year of major change and adjustment, and a year of financial woes. From me being furloughed, E's business slowing a bit and a major adjustment in the dynamic of our relationship with the addition of Cub (see Cub's blog for the year of Cub). I've been an emotional wreck, riding the roller coaster of hormones and guilt.

Small glimpses of sunshine this year: a very relaxing weekend away with my favorite gal pals; an awesome once-in-a-lifetime experience visiting my "home" country with ALL of my sibs, my mom and my super adventurous, bestie, J; and a successful 10 year holiday celebration with the "GRRLS". Wow! What a RIDE!

So, with that said - I'm ready. Ready to wax on-wax off all over 2009 and say HELLO! to 2010. Please don't do me wrong 2010!

"It's All About You"

2009-12-29T10:08:00.000-08:00

I have no idea how long I've heard this phrase over and over again regarding breastfeeding past the age of one year. Mostly from other moms *I think* and have heard the "tone" or statements implying to stop breastfeeding at a year from medical personnel. I heard it again just recently and although I shrugged it off and did not comment, it got my mind whirling.

What in the heck does this REALLY mean? What's SOOOO magical about the age of ONE that all of a sudden we're supposed to have pacifiers, bottles, formula, boobs, etc. put away? And WHY when breastfeeding your child is BEST when they're born that at the magical age of ONE makes it UNNECESSARY and then it becomes ALL ABOUT YOU????? Again, what does that really mean?

Every person and child is different that there is no way you can determine an absolute cut-off age for everything. C'mon really? Some kids are two years old still needing their "binky". My kid has never really take to a paci or blankey or anything for comfort except nursing with his Mamma. He likes the comfort of snuggling up to me and having his mamma's milk before nite nite or when he wakes up first thing in the morning. He's not quite ready to get up and wants to snuggle and have his morning milk. So why should I take that away? Take away his "comfort"? I don't see you yanking away your kids paci, lovey blankey, bear or what-have-you when your kid is desperately clinging on to have that one comfort!

Tell you what: You yank that paci/lovey blankey/bear/toy or whatever brings your child comfort from him on his first birthday cold turkey and then we'll talk.

Vietnam: Arrival - Day 1

2009-12-22T08:48:00.000-08:00

We arrived in Vietnam on Tuesday evening. It definitely was a grueling day of travel without showers and there was nothing I wanted more than to shower and rest comfortably. Trying to sleep on the plane is, at best, uncomfortable. Unfortunately, everyone was already irritated/annoyed as there was some miscommunication between my mom, her sister (my Aunt) and the arrival/pick up time. So while we waited, we kept our eyes on our luggage and looked out for pick-pockets as we were warned repeatedly about.

Once our Aunt arrived, we packed into a van and headed to the hotel where she rented us a couple of rooms for the night to drop our stuff and settle in. Excuse the "blurry" photos, but I was so fascinated by the traffic. Motorbikes are the main mode of transportation for everyone and I had to try and capture it.

Notice this guy below as he attempts to cross the street in the middle of traffic.

So, after we got to our room we headed back out to get something to eat. It was a place literally right down the street so we walked over there and had our first taste of pho in Vietnam! Notice in this pic, there are no "doors", it literally is a walk up open space. Our cousin is in purple and the "cart" is where the food is stored to make our soup.

Here is everyone sitting down waiting for our order. Notice on the right, the microwave and next to that a small fridge. Yes, that IS the "kitchen".

The stove. Our soup was being warmed up!

Here's a clearer pic of the fridge/microwave, aka "the kitchen". One thing they don't have is a lot of cold storage. Drinks were warm and they provided glasses/cups with ice to accompany your drink. This was also the case for beer. :)

Imagine my shock of the condition of this "restaurant". Me, of spoiled American origin of standards and health codes. I remember looking at my BFF, J - who also gave me the same look - "Uh oh. Should we be scared? Should we be eating here?" In the end, I did of course eat (I think that's all I did this whole trip) because, here I was in VIETNAM and as the saying goes "When in Rome..." right?

Just a little side note: The pho was ok. My mom makes a MUCH MUCH better pot/bowl of pho.

Stay tuned for the next post: Our hotel room...

The Holidays are Upon Us!

2009-12-15T22:34:00.000-08:00

Yes, indeedy! Unfortunately, I don't feel much in the holidays spirit this year. I'm feeling more like Scrooge BEFORE he went to sleep. Ha! But the one thing I do LOVE to do is gift exchanges. I love it when they're organized and anonymous (to the giftee) so you never know what you'll get! I am friends with some awesome Mamas from the BabyCenter and this is the second exchange we've done. This time, it's between us ladies (not the kiddos) and we were to send our favorite winter things to the person we were assigned. So the person who got me, sent me her favorite winterish things which were these:

A cool Starbuck's mug, can of Dulce de Leche Hot Chocolate, four votive holiday scented candles (Home for Christmas & Holiday Cinnamon) from the Yankee Candle Company and a stick of Burt's Bees Lip Balm! How awesome is that?!?!

Snow in Sacramento?

2009-12-09T12:26:00.000-08:00

UNHEARD OF!!! But yes, it's true. Monday, we got SNOW in Sacramento. We had a small spattering of snow on our lawn and it was SUPER COLD. It really made me stop and reflect on the wonders of nature and put me a little in the holiday spirit :) Here is the snow on my backyard lawn:

Check out It's a Cub's World... for his adventure with the snow.

Vietnam: Traveling - Day 1 (Partial)

2009-12-03T14:14:00.000-08:00

After a small nudge from one of my Twitter peeps, I thought I'd at least start/try to blog a little about my Vietnam trip although I have 2GB worth of photos/video to go through. We were scheduled to leave Sunday evening and head down to SFO to catch our red-eye (midnight-ish) flight to Honk Kong. It's a direct flight (thank goodness for that!) but FOURTEEN hours on a plane is not my idea of fun. Especially since my mom was in RARE form even before we LEFT the house on Sunday.

I don't want to get into the nasty drama that ensued but thankfully, we were all on our merry way a half hour behind schedule (no biggie as we planned in some extra time). Our travel to SFO and our flight was very uneventful. I had bought and brought a new manual breast pump & my nursing cover with me. As most of you may know, I had not weaned the little Cub (although we were trying) and I didn't want to NOT have milk upon my return just in case. So that was partially my entertainment as well as my very own individual screen to watch movies, play video games or listen to music! They also fed us a couple of times on the flight and they had cup o' noodles for a snack in case we got hungry during the loooong flight.

Once we arrived in Hong Kong, we had a 7 hour layover. Umm, yeah. Not so fun - but at least the airport was HUMONGOUS and they had a STARBUCK'S?!!! This would be the last I saw of one until our return trip. They also had free wi-fi (thank goodness my bro brought his iPhone) AND we discovered a bit late unfortunately, that they had computer terminals available also. No pics prior to us leaving, but here are a couple of shots during our layover in Hong Kong:

Have no idea why I was SURPRISED they had a Disney Store, but I was and had a pic of me and my BFF, J taken in front of it. See how dorky we look? Touristy for sure, yes?

Not only did they have a Starbuck's, they had a Popeye's Chicken! Now, there's only one that I know of near where I live and I don't think they're THAT great to also have one in Hong Kong? Really?

See what's on the menu? And check out those prices!! But that's in HK Dollars. I didn't realize that Hong Kong has their own money and the exchange rate was $1 USD to $7ish HKDs.

The first thing we did once we figured out where we needed to be was to EAT! We found a place serving up dim sum and after this, I was totally DONE with seafood. Almost every dish we ordered (don't know why) had shrimp or tasted shrimpy. This here's my bro, D - Sis, L & Mom

This one is of my Oldest Sis, A and bro, D. Obviously we were hungry and waiting patiently for our food. Bro on his iPhone, texting away to someone.

Stay tuned for my next post: our arrival in Vietnam...

I'm BAAACK!

2009-11-14T21:33:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post... I'm back from Vietnam. Ten days with my family and BFF, J. A helluva trip. I'm glad I went, but I really really missed the Cub. Ten days was a little too long for me, but there was definitely a lot more to see and do that we didn't get to. Mainly we had family visit with us daily, our daily trip to the Ben Thanh market and we ate constantly. I ran out of money on day eight, but thankfully it doesn't cost a whole lot to eat there and I "borrowed" some money from my mother for the remaining days.

Thanks to everyone who pitched in and helped Pappa Bear in some way, shape or form - whether it was providing dinner for him and the Cub, watching the Cub or just checking in on him. He was able to get the Cub to sleep through the night (8ish p.m. to 7ish a.m.) so we'll see how it goes now that I'm back. So far, he's gone down after 10p, up at 5:30a, down at 930p, up at 6a... We'll see what tonight brings and look for more posts about my trip and Vietnam!

I'm Going...

2009-10-28T17:51:00.000-07:00

You heard it hear first (or not). I'm leaving late Sunday night/early Monday morning for 10 days with all of my siblings, my mother and my BFF, J. I'm still in denial/in a daze about the thought of leaving my Cub behind with his Pappa Bear while I head out of country.

This is an awesome opportunity to visit my Aunt, Uncle and cousins on my mother's side and see a little bit of the country which half my blood originates. Who knows when this opportunity will strike again? I'm all nerves but am excited too. What an amazing adventure it's going to be!

So there it is. 10 days. Vietnam. Here we come.

Kohl's Gift Card WINNER!

2009-10-27T21:14:00.000-07:00

Thank you to those handful of people who showed me some love and actually entered my giveaway! The winner of the gift card is......

Entry #25 (Sorry, my first giveaway, I couldn't figure out how to get the screenshot):

fancygrlnancy 25 October 26, 2009 9:01 PM: I paid it forward when I was given some baby items (swing, play gym, blankets, etc.) and didn't really need them. So I gave them all to a really nice girl I work with that is struggling financally. SHe is pregnant with her second child and her dh is currently unemployed.bwneyes100 AT hotmail DOT com

I will be emailing Nancy shortly and she will have 48 hours to claim her prize or another winner will be selected!!! :)

Thanks everyone!

Mitten Gloves - Pay It Forward Giveaway! CLOSED

2009-10-19T01:29:00.000-07:00

*JUST IN TIME FOR WINTER!!!*

One of the things I have been coveting since we went to Ohio a few years ago to visit family were these mitten gloves I'll call them. Our niece, Sarah had a pair and I thought WOW! What a GREAT idea! The warmth of a mitten but the use of a glove when you need it! It comes in handy especially in the COLD COLD weather like where she lives. I have not been able to find these ANYWHERE until recently. I found a pair at Kohl's! Here are some pics of the ones I got:

They call these Flip-Top Magic Gloves

One with the "mitten" on and one with the "mitten" off.

With the "mitten" buttoned on the backside of the glove

They also had other patterns that were just too cute! I was sooo thrilled about finding these that I'm going to give away to one of you lucky ducks a $10 Gift Card to Kohl's so you can buy your own!

To enter, leave me a comment and give me the skinny on a situation in which you "paid it forward" OR if you haven't yet, give me the skinny on how you would like to to "pay it forward" to someone else! This entry is mandatory! Meaning, if you don't do it first, your other entries don't count.

Want extra entries? You got it! Here's how & don't forget to leave a comment for each of these that you do:

Follow my blog publicly.
Subscribe to my blog by e-mail.
Follow Cub's blog, It's a Cub's World & We Just Live In It... publicly.
Grab my button, and leave a link to where it's posted.
Follow me on Twitter (@nikinic29 and @CubsMamma) (2 entries, one for each twitter ID)
Tweet this giveaway, using my twitter name (@nikinic29) and a link to this post - (must leave permalink) - 1x per day
Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.
Comment on any other post (up to 2 posts per blog) either on this blog or on Cub's blog and let me know where you did.
*JUST ADDED* Add Cub's 1st Birthday Twibbon to your Twitter Avatar! - http://bit.ly/1y5yTt

Since I am headed out of the country in two weeks, I will be closing this giveaway on Tuesday, October 27 at 9 p.m. PST. Winner will be selected using Random.org after verification of entry and notified by e-mail. Winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize or another winner will be selected. Please ensure your e-mail address is either in your posted comments or if you blog, enabled in your profile or somewhere on your blog.

esbaby Baby!!

2009-10-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

I'm having a BLAST cloth diapering my little Cub! "What could be so fun about changing poopy diapers?" you might be thinking but how it could NOT be with such adorable squishy cute diapers from WAHMs (work-at-home-moms) who are so talented like Christine at Essential Saltes Baby? You can check our her Etsy shop here. I absolutely LOVE her diapers, as I said above, they are so soft & squishy with such cute prints! Some of her already sold prints like MixTape, TRex, or for a girl - Spring Chick?

Christine is also super nice and even does custom diapers! I ordered a custom and it shipped the NEXT day. How awesome is that? So, if you haven't yet, check her out! I guarantee you won't be disappointed!

Under Construction

2009-10-12T02:48:00.000-07:00

I somehow got a wild hair up my arse and decided to change my blog... and I lost all of my previously inserted/added links to my favorite blogs (that means YOURS too!). So please be patient while I work with the debris and try to get it all cleaned up...

Wordless Wednesday - Coach

2009-09-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have found another love... granted I've had this love for a while, but thought I'd at least share for the moment...

For more Wordless Wednesday visit Wordless Wednesday or
Mostly Wordless at Ordinary & Awesome!
Don't forget to post and link yours!

Wordless Wednesday - Family Love!

2009-09-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

I have a very small family,
but I love them even though they (we) have our own quirks!
So I thought I would share them with you!

All of these pics are dated B.C. (before Cub) except for one.

Here is me and my Moms. :)
I love her, she's an awesome lady! (sometimes)

Mom & us kids :) This was when my oldest sis
was preggo with her 4th (and last).

My oldest sis' hub and kids! Count 'em...4!

My 2nd oldest sis' kid (shown here at his 8th Grade "promotion"),
now a senior in high school!

Cub's 1st Christmas!
Don't we all look whooped?

I hope you enjoyed this week's edition - as we were MOSTLY WORDLESS today.
For more Mostly Wordless, head on over to Ordinary & Awesome!

Don't forget to check out Cub's Wordless Wednesday at
It's a Cub's Life...

Thoughtful Thursday

2009-09-10T06:52:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged very much and really there is no excuse. So I thought I'd try and make it a regular habit of posting each day with a little something. So here's my post for today - a couple of things that have been rolling around in my head:

Why isn't there a plunger holder? Seriously. You buy a toilet brush and it comes with one of those holder thingamajiggys and what about the plunger? Don't you stick that in the toilet too? Doesn't that get all muckety mucked up? Then what?

What's up with the kajillion cupholders? Seriously - looking for a new car? A kajillion cupholders is the main boasted feature! SERIOUSLY? We're that dumb as a society that we'd pick a car with more cupholders over one that has better performance or reliability?! Even CHILD car seats come with a cupholder or two.

When did TV become more important than spending time with your family? I've been stood up by friends because of SOMETHING that was on TV before and not to mention the couch-potato syndrome as displayed by Pappa Bear every now and then. C'mon, really? Don't we have better things to do, people to see?

Although it seems that with technology that we should be able to keep in touch more, why is it that we talk to each other less?

For Thankful Thursday and updates on the Cub,
follow us at It's a Cub's World...

Wordless Wednesday - Ah... the love

2009-09-08T23:09:00.000-07:00

One of my fave pics from our honeymoon... Ah, so much in love! Still are! :)

For more Wordless Wednesday, visit www.wordlesswednesday.com

Wordless Wednesday - My Love, My Life

2009-09-02T07:04:00.001-07:00

Eating Healthier?

2009-08-25T13:00:00.000-07:00

So, I think my participation in the Body After Baby Challenge is a bust. BUT I will continue to keep on and try to make the changes for a healthier and fit lifestyle. I had to give this some serious thought and because Samantha was wondering where we all had disappeared to. So here's the truth:

Although I was inspired by Samantha's positive and uplifting pep talk, I could not find the motivation. I cannot even explain why because it'll just sound like a bunch of excuses. AND after I inhaled eight (yes, I said EIGHT) donuts in two days, I realized I had a problem.

I've lost my willpower. Where did it go? It was there before Cub, it was present during my short, enjoyable journey growing the Cub, and somewhere after his arrival it disappeared! But thanks to some encouraging words (once again by Samantha), I'm stepping back up and getting on the wagon!

Starting with TODAY! Here's what I've consumed so far:

Breakfast: 1/2 Breakfast Burrito (eggs, bagon, potatoes, cheese, salsa)
Snack: Kashi Go Lean Chocolate Almond Bar
Lunch: Marie Callender's Pasta Al Dente Cavatappi Genovese

Have you TRIED one of these Marie Callendar's Pasta Al Dente meals? It tastes SUPERB and it only 400 calories! Granted it is loaded with sodium (1180mg) but I don't normally salt my food so I figure it's a wash, right? AND we've started to add in evening/nightly walks with the Cub into our routine after dinner. So, wish me luck!

A Blog for Cub

2009-08-19T10:39:00.000-07:00

I know, another thing to manage, right? Yep, I did it. I started a blog for Cub & all things Cub related (which includes my love of cloth diapers!). :) So, if you're following me here - please continue to do so but also follow me over there too so you can see updates on the Cub and what's going on in the World of Cub :) So head on over to It's a Cub's World... See you over there!

Not the Biggest Loser...

2009-07-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

Samantha over at Mama Notes is doing a GREAT job trying to motivate all us Mamas to lose those extra pounds since having baby (or even before). I have to give her props and kudos because she truly is an inspiration and has many glowing words of praise and support for all of us. But for me, I cannot fathom why I cannot get into the spirit. I joined up in the hopes that this would motivate me to do more, eat better and restart my daily mile walks I took during my pregnancy.

Unfortunately, my plan has backfired. I feel like a loser, a disappointment and definitely not in the top running to become the "Biggest Loser". *sigh* The reality is, I'm under stress/pressure from work and am still trying to juggle working and being a mom. I have no idea where my 'wife' role went to. I'm feeling increasingly frustrated with the hubs and I can't figure out why.

Not to mention, I accepted the Body after Baby Challenge the week before I went away for my annual girls getaway weekend (which I swear I gained 5lbs!) and now here I am on vacation. It is so hard to stick to a diet/exercise plan when you're on vacation!!!

Anyway, all this to post and say - THANKS SAMANTHA but not sure how the rest of these weeks will go for me...

Blurble Blurble

2009-07-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's the sound of bubbles! One of the things you have to make sure you're careful of when you're cloth diapering is what kind of detergent you use! The Natural Baby Company has come out with the PERFECT solution - even safe for HE machines! Tiny Bubbles! This detergent is also bio-degradable and free of dyes and brighteners that can cause buildup. Buildup can cause all kinds of issues like repelling, stink and irritation on your baby's bum!! I can't wait to try this detergent out! For more information and to pick up your own, head on over to their site.

Motivation

2009-07-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

I'm seriously lacking it. Big time. I spend a huge chunk of any free time I have sitting here at my desk online. Yes- I Twitter, FB, Blog, Instant Message, etc. I spend so much time online in fact, I suffer withdrawals if I'm away for too long. It's like a drug and I can't stop. All that to say, I needed some motivation to get my fat arse away from the computer and doing something to get myself healthier and in shape.

So without further excuses, I'm joining Samantha in the

My goals for now are to eat healthier by stopping my donut binge (yes, I do have a problem with devouring Donut King donuts) and to start walking at least a mile every day. Hopefully I can accomplish this AND lose some weight in the process. Wish me luck!

Who's the Smartipants?

2009-06-29T21:56:00.000-07:00

Yes! Another cloth diaper giveaway from one of my favorite (and lucky) blogger Mamas - Megan over at Newly Wed, Newly Bred! :) I already have six of these AWESOME dipes and I'm entering for a chance to win another! Just check out this Smartipants:

CSN Rug

2009-06-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

Okay Mommas - this isn't about cloth diapers this time. Have you seen the amazing kids area rugs that CSN has to offer? You HAVE to check them out! They are also offering a 20% discount just for shopping! See their website for more info. So, OneBoredMommy is doing a giveaway for one of these rugs and I want to win! :) So head on over and see for yourself what the fuss is about! :)

Applecheeks AGAIN!

2009-06-26T21:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm trying to win those darn Applecheeks dipes! They are just tooo cute! So anyway, check out Desiree Fawn's blog HERE for your entry at a chance to win the illustrious Applecheeks dipe! But don't really go there - because I want to win! Ha ha!

Thirsties & 15% Off!

2009-06-25T10:29:00.001-07:00

I love the opportunities to win free cloth diapers or discounts! I'm currently obsessed/addicted!!! So here is another chance for you CDing Mamas out there - Head on over to MamaNotes to find out how to enter her giveaway for a Thirsties Diaper from Mama Momo!

DryBees Bum!

2009-06-24T10:51:00.000-07:00

Yep! I want my Cub to have a DryBees bum! So I'm entering another cloth diaper giveaway, and you should too! Check out Momma Molly's blog for the deets! Good luck everyone!

GADBaby Dipes

2009-06-21T17:08:00.000-07:00

Diaper giveaway! Yep! Megan has once again received the opportunity to review and giveaway another cloth diaper! This time, she received a GADBaby diaper. I already have two and I LOVE mine! Check out her review HERE and enter to win one yourself!

Applecheeks!

2009-06-20T22:38:00.000-07:00

Applecheeks is holding a contest to win a Minitest before their release! Only the first 100 will be entered! Hurry and enter!

Got Wool?

2009-06-20T16:01:00.000-07:00

I certainly don't! And I have yet to figure out the love for it... so I've entered a blog giveaway so I can (hopefully) find out what the hype is all about! If you have the wool love or if you're like me and want to find out what it's all about... head on over HERE to enter! The winner will get a HANDCRAFTED wool soaker! Good luck to all of you cloth diapering Mamas! :)

Almost 8 Months!

2009-06-15T21:17:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I know I haven't blogged much recently - and the ones I have done are all about cloth diaper giveaways! Ha ha! (More about that later). So, I thought I'd post some updates about the Cub and what we've been up to the last month or so.

Cub is eating more solids and 'chewing' although he has no teeth. He's tasted beef, chicken, pork, fish and duck. Each week we try something new to give him variety and depending on what we're eating, giving him a taste of that.

He had his first pork rib at his grandma's and Grandma gave him his first taste of asparagus!
Cub also seems to have a little girlfriend! She's been over several times to hang with the Cub. They have taken a liking to each other and has even entertained her in his crib! Hee hee!We have also been on several playdates to catch up with some Moms that we know and love and the last time, he was the only boy! Not that he was complaining, mind you! *wink*
We have finally taken the bassinet part of the pack'n'play off and now he enjoys a little bit of time in his playpen everyday :)
We also took him to the county fair, where he enjoyed his first taste of beef jerky! He also got his first ride on a 'roller coaster' and the Carousel!

What else is new? The Cub is CRAWLING!! So excited and yet so scary for us! Thank goodness the BabyLegs I ordered him came in so he can keep his knees protected! (Pappa Bear hates them btw)AND the Cub has managed to stand up in his crib! We have yet to move the mattress to the lower setting, but it's coming soon!
And lastly, tonight, Cub started swim lessons! I'm starting him early since most of you know, I didn't learn how to swim until two years ago! LOL! He had a fun time with Pappa and tomorrow night I'll be getting in the water. :)Ok, I guess that's it for now - I'm off to shower and bed. I hope you enjoyed the pics! :) I promise, I'll try and update more often. :)

Apple Cheeks!

2009-06-12T09:36:00.000-07:00

Yep, another one! Amanda is giving away an AppleCheeks dipe! They have so many luscious colours to choose from! So, head on over to her blog here and enter to win!

Smartipants!!!

2009-06-12T09:24:00.000-07:00

I'm OBSESSED!!! Amanda is doing another giveaway! This time for the illustrious Smartipants dipe! Head on over to her blog here and enter to win!!!

another sleepless night...

2009-06-04T07:54:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how many of you mommies are having this problem but my kid now does NOT sleep through the night (STTN). He sleeps at best, 4 hour stretches. He used to be SUCH a good sleeper and I had NO complaints! Now, he wakes up every 2-3 hours and one night it was every hour! Holy ca-schmoly... It is driving both me and E insane. It started right around 5 months and now that he's 7.5 months, there is no sign of it getting any better. I'm so reluctant to let him cry it out (CIO) because I cannot STAND the crying. It grates my nerves, it breaks my heart. Although I'm sure if I did let him CIO, he'd probably STTN because he'd wear himself out! LOL!!! Anyway, just had to vent - if any of you mommies have any tips, please share! :)))

Here's what he should be doing at night... LOL!!!

Another Giveaway!

2009-06-04T07:43:00.000-07:00

This time it's not for just cloth diapers (although I'm currently obsessed!) but for a $20 giftcard to RG Natural Babies! Amanda is proudly doing this giveaway, so head on over to her blog HERE and enter to win!

Luvin' the Cub!

2009-06-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

For those of you who follow me, I have been absent via blog lately. Except for blogging about fabulous contests! I'm totally in love with cloth diapers and have recently branched out and purchased my first set to try on our own. If it all works out, we'll be canceling our diaper service and buying more! Woo hoo!!! I guess I'm turning into a 'crunchy' kind of Mamma! LOL!!! Who knew I had it in me?? :)

Anyway, I don't have much to say but here's some pics of the Cub!!

E took this pic my first day back at work...

Cub managing his own bottle of Mamma's milk!

Our first family trip to the park with Pappa Bear luvin' on the Cub!

Cub eating his foot!

Cub trying out some lettuce on Mother's Day!

See Kai Run!

2009-06-01T15:33:00.000-07:00

What great adorable shoes! My friend Megan at Newly Wed, Newly Bred did a review of these... check it out and enter her giveaway!!!

Bummis!

2009-05-31T17:33:00.001-07:00

So another fabulous giveaway by Megan! Check out her blog for the Bummis giveaway!

Fuzzi Bunz!!!

2009-05-31T17:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it's been a while since I last posted and of course, I'm blogging about a giveaway! My latest craze is cloth diapering (which I already do with a service) but I'm venturing out on my own... so check out Megan's blog for the Fuzzi Bunz Giveaway!

Another Giveaway!

2009-05-07T14:19:00.000-07:00

This one is for everyone! Amanda is once again doing a giveaway! This time, it's a PlanetWise Wet Bag! You can use it for transporting anything but it's great for wet items (swimsuits, cloth diapers, etc.)! I encourage you all to enter!!! Click here to enter!

Amanda's Fuzzi Bunz Giveaway!!

2009-05-05T07:39:00.001-07:00

Amanda, the proud mommy of four is giving away THREE Fuzzi Bunz diapers! Click here to go to her blog and enter!

... and he's OUT!!!

2009-05-03T17:41:00.001-07:00

Cub has been such a cutie pie today... E was feeding him dinner of carrots and apples in his high chair while I was making dinner and then all of a sudden... he fell asleep!!!

Bummis Giveaway!!!

2009-05-03T17:36:00.000-07:00

For you Mommies out there - check out Amanda's Giveaway for Bummis!! Cloth diapering is so easy!!

We've Made It!!!

2009-04-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

... to six months. Holy ca-schmoly! My boy is now 6 months old! I'm in utter shock at how FAST the time flew. It seems like just yesterday we just brought him home and we were struggling with learning to breastfeed. Today he's wearing the next size up in diapers and diaper covers. Once again, his bottom looks bigger than the rest of his body thanks to the cloth diapers.

He had has well baby checkup on Tuesday and everything was great! He weighed in at 15lbs 11.5oz and measured 25.5 inches. He got half of his vaccinations and then is when the fun started... he started to feel a little warm Tuesday evening and finally about 9pm I gave him some Tylenol. His underarm temp was about 99 and he still seemed to be in good spirits. Yesterday morning he was doing about the same so I gave him more Tylenol. Then, early afternoon he started in on the whining and he felt even warmer so I finally took a rectal temp - it was 104!

I called the advice nurse and gave him a dose of Motrin and his temp went down a little but it's now settled at about 101. It was a rough night last night... there is nothing worse than seeing your son's pouty lip and tears because he doesn't feel well and there's nothing you can do about it. It just breaks your heart. He finally went to sleep around midnight-ish and woke up a few times during the night to moan/cry a little bit and then back to sleep.

I feel like I barely slept - I kept getting up to check on him, feel his head and make sure he wasn't too warm or too cold. This morning he still has a temperature of about 101 but he seems to be in good spirits and nursing fine. I'm keeping my fingers crossed his temperature will come down today and that he'll be back to his normal self soon.

Anyway, Happy 6 Months my baby boy! Mamma loves you sooo much!

It's So Worth It!

2009-04-18T08:07:00.000-07:00

If one more person says this to me, there will be some kung fu fighting going on. And I'll win. Trust me. What's so worthy about someone being dependent on you 24/7, depriving you of sleep, cries until your ears bleed and is slowly draining your bank account? AND that's not all! "Bob tell her what else she's won!... Well, in addition to the glorious prizes mentioned before, you also win a LIFETIME of worry and guilt! Welcome to motherhood!!" Woo hoo!!

I think this phrase is the single most overused and worst comment to make to a new parent. Especially one who is having a hard time adjusting and struggling to cope. I don't think anyone knows what else to say when someone is honest about how hard of a time they are having. Your support disappears! The topic is avoided and no one understands (unless you've been there yourself). It's expected that you instantly bond with your child and you should be soooo happy that you are now shouldering the awesome burden/responsibility of raising a person.

Sorry! But I don't feel that way! I've been struggling to deal with my feelings and emotions - where most everyone says 'Oh, it's just your hormones' instead of just really listening and noticing the signs and symptoms of PPD. After my husband mentioned it, I finally went to see the doctor and hopefully I'll be feeling some relief in the coming weeks.

Pears, Sweet Potato, Avocado & Potato

2009-04-02T11:36:00.000-07:00

These have been our cub's first foods. It has been quite an adventure into the world of solids - and nothing as spectacular as the changing of poop! Although I would've liked to have actually SHOWN you how it changes, I know not everyone likes to look at poop. Ha! :) It's been interesting being a mom/parent. You never think you'd be sooo interested in someone else's bodily functions but it can really clue you in on what's going on with your baby. Anyway, I just wanted to share some photos of my boy eating his first four foods! Enjoy :)

Pappa feeding cub pears

Let me try Pappa!

Yah, these sweet potatoes are good...

Oh yah! Avocado is BETTER than sweet potato!

Eh - potato is a little bland but it'll do...

The Curse of the Strong Woman

2009-03-31T21:57:00.000-07:00

I had a great visit and an awesome chat with my friend D the other day. I hadn’t seen her in a couple of years and it felt so good that we could pick up where we left off and engage in a conversation of worth.

I am one of those women that some perceive as tough and strong. I am also one of those women who will be there for you when you need me. Provide a shoulder to cry on, a hug when you need it, a little pick me up when you’re down. I’m a loyal friend to a fault. I’m generous to those I love and put myself out there in any way that you may need me if you grace my circle.

So, it comes much to my surprise that when I need someone the most, there is no one. In my desperate struggles to adjust to the major changes in my life, I’ve heard from no one. Yes, initially everyone was clamoring to see the new precious bundle of love that we brought into this world, but what about now?

I do understand that everyone is busy, have their own issues they need to deal with, etc. – but if you can’t take ONE day every couple of weeks or even ONE day a month to spend some time with a friend who may or may not need you – what does that say about you? The value of your friend? The value of the relationship? What does that say to ME?

Here I am, five months into my new life and I can’t help but to feel abandoned. I feel dumped by my so-called friends and family. As I explain this to D, she said it was “The Curse of the Strong Woman. When you’re perceived as strong, no one thinks you need help. If you did you’d ask right?” Nothing is further from the truth. Although I do put up that ‘tough’ exterior, inside I’m sensitive and emotional. My feelings are easily hurt. It’s one of the hardest things for everyone to show how vulnerable they really are but even more so for someone who is ‘strong’. The same goes for asking for help. I feel like I’m begging. But I also feel that if I can SEE you hurting and you need me, why can’t you do the same for me? Why can’t you SEE me like I SEE you?

Our conversation also had me thinking of that saying ~ “People come into your life for a season, reason or a lifetime”. Looking back on my experiences through the years, this does seem to be a true statement. But how do you identify and pick those ‘lifetime’ friends? I guess only time will tell and I’m hesitant to start pulling what I think are weeds in my friendship garden at this point.

I agree with D that as we get older, we start to cherish those special lifetime friendships more and want to surround ourselves with people who love us as just as much as we love them. I am so thankful that D & I were finally able to spend some time together. I really missed her and it felt great that she allowed me to bare my soul to her and to be that ear for me, the tissue box provider that I needed at that moment.

If you have friends that you perceive as ‘strong’ don’t think that there’s nothing you can do for them. There is. Take the time to SEE them. TALK to them – not just about the day-to-day things. Really talk. Be there as they are for you, even if they don’t ask. Let them know that you care, that you have the time. I’m sure they’ll appreciate it and they’ll realize how much they mean to you as you mean to them.

Back to Work

2009-03-25T21:56:00.001-07:00

~Proud Parents with Nicholas, 2 Days Old~

*heavy sigh* I'm sitting here in amazement. How time really flies by. A little over a year ago I found out I was pregnant. Although a very much wanted/planned pregnancy, a shock that it actually happened. That we were finally going to become parents. After a wonderful pregnancy, unbearable back labor and an emergency c-section, our little boy arrived two weeks early. So, here in amazement, I cannot believe it's been a little over FIVE months from when he arrived and from the time I started my maternity leave. FIVE freakin' months I've been off of work and the day has now arrived that I must return to work.

The great news is that I have been approved for and will be working three-fifths time which is 24 hours or 3 days a week. This I will be doing until the end of October which will mark a year since the arrival of our little one.

I do not envy any mother who has to return to work at six or eight weeks. At six or eight weeks I was BARELY able to function and just BARELY getting a handle on this thing called motherhood. We were just finally getting the hang of breastfeeding and I was just starting to feel ok about taking him out in public.

So, even at five months - I find it hard emotionally to have to change my focus and return to work. Change my focus to something so trivial and less important than my son. If I were less selfish, I probably wouldn't return to work at all, but let's face it... I'm as independent as they come and the thought of not having my own time, my own space and my own money really makes my skin crawl.

We have been so lucky though to find someone who will be here to care for our son, someone who I feel will care and nurture him as I would. So although it's heart-breaking to have to return to work, off I go. I'm finally at peace with it and I hope it will all be worth it in the end.

~Nicholas, 5 months old (eating solids!)~

Parenting Know-It-All

2009-03-17T23:09:00.001-07:00

You know, I'm irked. Well, that's me being polite. I was actually quite OFFENDED at a narrow-minded comment that someone made about a particular parenting technique. Now, before I was a parent, I did (and still do) have my views about what I feel is appropriate for me as a parent and my child. I have learned though that there are many different ways to handle a particular situation and for each parent, they have to find what works for them and their child. Every child is different - there is no one way to appropriately raise/discipline/teach your child. I'm totally open to other points of views but what I'm not open to is narrow-minded bashing comments about my child, their behavior or the way in which I parent.

This particular case was in reference to using the CIO (cry it out) method in order to put your child to sleep. Now, I know this has worked for some of my friends (which I am just surprised/amazed/in awe) but I know this would never work for me. Only because I cannot STAND the crying. It grates my nerves and makes me want to pull my hair out. So I won't even try it. But kudos to those of you who can do it and your child can put themself to sleep without you holding them, boobing them, rocking them for endless hours or you having to get up every couple of hours.

So here's the comment that got me a little riled up:

"It really is normal for babies to wake that often...ones that sleep through the night at his age (or, gasp, even younger) have been 'trained' to realize that noone is going to tend to their needs and they give up and sleep though the hunger/pain/lonely/etc...no offense...."

ARE YOU SHITTING ME?! SERIOUS?! WTF?! This is in reference to a 4 month old. No offense? Are you KIDDING ME? Of COURSE I take offense! It's these kind of comments from another MOM that just PISSES me off! This is one mom who apparently knows it all about how babies are SUPPOSED to behave, never mind that every child is different and no two babies are alike. Fortunately for us, Boy has slept through the night for a couple of months now (he'll be 5 months on Saturday) without any coercion on our part.

There is no WAY that my child has been neglected just because he sleeps through the night. And JUST BECAUSE parents want an option to get their child to sleep and to sleep longer than two hour increments, doesn't mean they are training their kid to accept being ignored/neglected.

It was later clarified that her comment about the babies who sleep through the night were meant in reference to those babies who do cry it out, but I still disagree and find the comment even more offensive in that context. It's now a judgement statement to those parents who do choose to use the CIO method.

What's next? A comment/lecture on how I've already taught my child that he's not loved because he's been sleeping in his own crib since he was 8 weeks old? That my child will have low self-esteem because I don't hold/wear him 24/7? That my child will have dependency issues when he's older because I choose to let him play on his own in his exersaucer/bouncer/swing?

Once it was known I was pregnant, I found that I came across many many more of these types of people who are 'know-it-alls', push their opinion/point-of-view onto you and make judgements instead of those kind, open, supportive helpful people. You know - those people that listen to your views/issues, offer support, helpful suggestions and encourage you no matter what way you choose to go. I guess I'm lucky in that I feel that the Mommas on my board and in my Mommy group are all more of the helpful, supportive type and I don't have to deal with too many know-it-alls...

Pears!

2009-03-12T23:15:00.000-07:00

So tonight, I get a wild hair up my a$$ and decide to take my first stab at making baby food. Pears. Thought I would only use a little, but then realized I needed to steam more than what I did. Boy couldn't wait so I boobed him and then handed him over to Pappa so I could finish up. It really is super easy to make your own baby food. The only thing is that it can be a pain to make some every day so it's probably better to make a bunch and then freeze it. I however, don't have the trays to freeze yet, so I only made a little bit. So I think it came out ok - not as runny as I think it should've been. So I decide to try and feed it to Boy. Let me tell you - he was READY! Although he did make a funny face, he kept trying to grab my hand for more. :) So I guess he liked it! I probably should've put him in his high chair to feed him instead of leaving him in his Johnny Jump Up but oh well - here are some pics:

Here's a video of Daddy also feeding him pears - very exciting!

Mommies & Playdates

2009-03-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

Can I say that I ♥ the Moms from my Mommy group?! They have been my absolute lifesaver since having my precious boy and I hope that as some of us return to work that we will be able to get together on the weekends and keep in touch as our wee ones grow! Last Sunday, Cathy & Anna hosted 'tea time' and invited us over. There were a handful of Moms and babes there and at one point the volume was like a playground! Ah, the sweet sounds of kiddies! Since Nicholas enjoys his exersaucer so much here, he got to try out Anna's! And here is the mini-hostess herself!

A New Bouncer

2009-02-25T23:40:00.000-08:00

Yep - he finally wore out the hand-me-down bouncer seat we got from our fabulous neighbors before they moved. The fabric was starting to stretch so much that his butt was sinking lower and lower in the crevice and the back of the fabric started to feel like a sharp edge on his back. Before he was born, I was totally in the mindset of 'I want our boy to have everything new!' Ridiculous, I know now because you don't know what your kid will like or don't like. We received a swing that we registered for which I love, but the Boy doesn't. Who knew? The freebie hand-me-down bouncer seat we got he absolutely LOVED. I say he loved it because he spent much time in it without complaint and it became the one place I could put him without entertaining him in it. So, on his 18 week 'birthday', I headed to BRU and picked him up a new bouncer seat! Which he LOVES! Can't you tell?

ps- I've been messing with this damn blog trying to get the pictures JUST right and of course it doesn't publish the way it shows you in the preview window and of COURSE there's no easy way to adjust these things. WTF???? Is it too much to ask to have easy editing options for inserting photos and video?

Growing!

2009-02-23T20:16:00.000-08:00

It is truly AMAZING at how fast babies grow. Today Boy had his four month checkup. He is staying within his growth curve and is doing well! At birth, Boy was 6lbs 13oz and 19.25 inches long. Today he measured 24.5 inches and weighed in at 14lbs 5.7oz!

Milestones: He's now smiling all the time, laughing, cooing and 'talking'. He's able to grab and hold objects for a short period. He can stand if we help him and he has STRONG legs. He also has a grip that even his Pappa says can hurt. He's found his hand and tries to eat it constantly. He's also finally found his thumb and is sucking on it here and there.

Activities: He will lay on his back on his playmat and play with the objects that are dangling above his head. He'll play in his exersaucer, push buttons and slide the beads on the wire. In his high chair he spins his alphabet wheel.

I cannot believe that only four months ago this precious boy arrived and turned my world upside down!

Sacrifices

2009-02-22T20:38:00.000-08:00

I've always known that women make many sacrifices. Many many more than men do. But now that I've become a Mamma, I realize even MORE how much we do sacrifice and how much MORE we are unappreciated. Which makes me scratch my head and wonder for some women - Why in the hell would you settle for less than what you deserve and let yourself be unappreciated, disrespected and trampled on?

I am not intending this to be a feminist rant or even a man-bashing blog, but as I start typing, so much has been swirling in my head about relationships - of friends, family and even mine that I'm just tired of keeping it in.

I feel disgusted that women aren't smarter when it comes to relationships and doing what's best for them. It's in our nature to be nurturing and to take care of everyone but ourselves but why don't we change that? In this day where women are considered to be equals, why are we still shouldering the bulk of the responsibility for taking care of the family and the household in addition to working outside the home?

For myself, I feel so lucky and blessed to have a wonderful husband who does understand (or tries to) the sacrifices I've made in order to have this wonderful bundle of love in our life. He knows how hard it is to manage our son - the lack of sleep, the fussiness, the fighting of boob/bottle, the fighting of sleep, etc. - in addition to trying to keep up with laundry, dishes, cooking, cleaning, etc.

He also understands ME. For most of you ladies, you have to admit that this is a rare thing. He understands and knows me so well that he offers, without me having to push or ask, to take care of our son just to give me time to myself. Knowing that I need a break. A few hours to do whatever I choose. Whether it's to get a pedicure, shop for myself or just so I can get out of the house and drive around - it doesn't matter. The point is - he realizes that our son is a joint responsibility and it took two of us to bring him into this world, it will take two of us to raise and care for him.

So why is it that I have such a wonderful, loving, caring and understanding husband and most women do not? This is why I scratch my head. Are men like my husband that rare? Was he truly a treasure and I lucked out when I found him? Maybe. I would like to believe that. But in reality, it's because most women settle. Settle for what they think can work or what they can make work. But why? Why don't we see the writing on the wall like men do? Why is it that men can dump woman after woman when the relationship is so wrong for them without looking back and we can't? Why do we keep trying to make a relationship work when the signs are there flashing in bright neon colors in our face? What are we afraid of? Afraid of being alone? Afraid of being ourselves? Afraid of not finding someone who loves us for who we are? Do we really think less of ourselves that we don't deserve better? What?

I have no idea why this really gets under my skin about women but it really does. Maybe because I am one of those rare women who won't settle for less than what I deserve. I go for what I want and am able to walk away from something when I feel it's less than what I deserve. I think most women don't realize that they hold the power. That they have strength in the fact that they are a woman. If more women stood up for themselves, sacrificed less of who they are and took what they deserved, there would be better men in the world. Men would have to be better than who they are now to be with us.

The Start of Laughter...

2009-02-12T23:03:00.000-08:00

So E has been teaching our boy how to dance. Since our cub has such strong legs and tends to stand when supported - what better time to introduce him to groove to the tunes? Boy really likes it and just laughs and laughs with his Pappa so I've been trying to catch it on video for a few days and FINALLY I did! So here it is - a minute long video for your viewing and listening pleasure. By the way, have I said how cute I think our cub is??? :)

The Opposite Disposition

2009-02-09T17:22:00.000-08:00

So... E and I are night owls. We're the 'party 'til dawn' types. As much as we love to stay home, we probably love to go out and party it up with friends at the clubs/bars or wherever the 'party' is a little bit more. Or so we USED to. So the other night we head over to a friend's house to celebrate his birthday of course bringing our newest little partier, right? WRONG!

We thought we'd give him his shower early to put him at ease, get him in his jammies and then take him over there. Thinking he'd just chill and fall asleep when it was time. We thought it was going to work somewhat and then he started getting fussy. Like crying. We tried hard calming him down - bouncing him, taking him outside in the cool air, shoving the boob at him but none of it worked for a little bit and then he just decided he'd take the boob. He ate for a bit and then fell asleep. So I thought, ok - cool. Put him in his bouncer (which we brought) and he'll sleep for at least an hour, right? WRONG!!!!

He woke up SCREAMING like he was in pain and at that point there was NOTHING that would settle him down. So after being there for a little less than three hours, we bailed. Which sucked because I was about to show up the peeps on Wii Fit! What a downer for us, especially my hubby - since it was his friend's birthday celebration.

So here I am thinking about it and realizing that it's just our luck to have a child who is not only a morning person but prefers to have his evenings at home (at least for now)! WTF??? I know it really is too early to tell what his disposition will be but man, oh man! For now - this is what we have to deal with.

... and her lives ran out...

2009-02-02T22:20:00.000-08:00

When we started dating, my hubby has had this grey & white fluffy cat by the name of Tina. She used to be an indoor/outdoor cat (she used the dog door to come and go as she pleased) but once I moved in, she became an outdoor only cat. Now, obviously I gave her the boot but let me tell you she wasn't the friendliest kitty and she certainly wasn't giving up her spot as Queen without a fight.

We tried our best to 'train' her to stop camping out in places where she shouldn't be and eventually the constant vacuuming/cleaning up of her fluffy fur balls she was shedding in addition to the ones she was hacking up became too much for us to bear (hubby was doing a lot of daily cleaning). So, out she went!

We created a place for her on our front porch. We bought her a little 'cat house' so she had a place to sleep out of the elements and made sure she always had water and food when she came home to our porch. She actually became the neighborhood cat that everyone loved. Even as unfriendly as she was, she certainly had a certain charm and attractiveness to her that made everyone fond of her. I remember one day she came home with a flea collar on her and found out later that the neighbor across the street put it on her - she was spending so much time over there! But, she still came home at least once a day to eat, meowing at the door to let us know she was there and she needed to be fed! We often saw her strolling around the neighborhood daring anyone to mess with her and stood her ground in the middle of the street even when cars came by. We joked and swore she had a kajillion lives and we'd never be rid of her!

So today, two ladies from our neighborhood knocked at our door and asked if we owned the fluffy gray kitty. After I responded, they both told me with sadness in their voice that they found her and she was dead. She came to rest under some bushes in the neighbor's yard. I went over, called her name to make sure she wasn't just sleeping and reached out and touched her. There she was - cold and stiff. She was definitely gone...

I ran back into the house and into the bathroom where my husband was taking a shower and choked out the words... "Eric - Tina is dead." He immediately opened the shower door and looked at me stunned and said "What?" I then started crying. Which surprised me. There was no love lost between me and Tina but for some reason the thought of not seeing this tough little kitty stand her ground in the street, or coming to the porch and meowing for her food any longer just struck my nerve. She was still ours after all and I was fond of her even if she wasn't friendly to me. I like to think both of us 'agreed to disagree' about the living arrangements in the house when she was shown the door. We then both went on about our lives, respecting the new rules and giving each other ample space without intruding.

So, here's to Tina Weena (as I so fondly called her) - the devilishly, charming kitty who ruled the neighborhood. You will be missed...

A Night Off...

2009-01-30T15:51:00.000-08:00

Okay, so my wonderful hubby of three years is giving me the night off from being a Mamma. What a nice guy he is! Unfortunately, all of my friends are busy! WTF?! Oh well, I guess that's what life is like now for most of us. Gone are the days of 'spur of the moment' get togethers, after work drinks, last minute concerts... Everything must be planned in advance so as to work around spouse schedules/commitments and/or to find adequate childcare for our wee ones... How boring is that?

I guess I have a little of excitement to be getting out and going to see one of my good friends perform in her 80s cover band (I haven't seen her band perform since before I got pregnant! Oh wait - I WAS pregnant last time I saw her band play, but I just didn't know it!).

Unfortunately, I am still nursing so to drink or not to drink? That is the question of the night. And if the answer is to drink - then the next question is 'Drink what?' I have mixed feelings on the drinking and nursing issue. One drink should be ok but one drink of what? A mixed drink? A beer? A glass of wine? And really - how much will this REALLY affect my little one?

Eh! I'm not going to worry about it - as someone once told me "Being a mom is the guiltiest job you will ever have!" Isn't that the truth?

Boy, as I reread what I wrote I realize - this post took a wrong turn at Downer Avenue didn't it? Sheesh!!! Maybe I do need that drink after all!!!

Chuc Mung Nam Moi!

2009-01-26T12:25:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Today is the beginning of the Chinese/Vietnamese New Year! Those born this year are of the Earth Ox sign which signifies new beginnings.

Unfortunately, we have fell out of tradition in our family and we no longer celebrate this significant day but we do acknowledge it. You'll find us celebrating with the Westerners on their New Year instead.

I guess this is my short & sweet post - however if you find chinese astrology interesting like I, check out this site: http://chinese.astrology.com/

Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!

The Tale of Two Spoils

2009-01-26T00:17:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am! I have to start off by saying how wonderful my husband is. Despite him feeling under the weather, true to his word, he gave me the day off! What does that mean you ask? It means that he stayed home and rested up with our baby boy while I got out of the house to do what I wanted! Woo hoo! Never have I felt so lucky to have this wonderful man in my life, especially knowing that some of you Mommas out there do not ever get a day off from someone needing you and depending on you.

So here I am, a day free to myself and how do I spend it? At the day spa, getting a pedicure? Getting a massage? Nope! I spend my time shopping for my baby boy! Although we did get a lot of clothes for our boy, we are lacking in sleepers in the 3-6 month range. But, before I splurge too much on clothes I head to Best Buy just for kicks.

What do I find? A sale! For some reason, TV sets were going out the door by the dozens it seemed like! Now, I've been on the hunt since after Thanksgiving for a new LCD TV for our game room/play room and the room has become our 'junk' room since I haven't found a good deal yet. Not that we're in any hurry since our boy is still not able to hold a Wii remote. But today I found one! Woo hoo! Not only am I spoiled by my husband, here I am spoiling my little boy! Yep - I did it! I bought my little boy a 40" LCD 1080p, 120hz, 50000:1 Contrast Ratio HDTV! He's going to have quite the game/play room but in all honestly, the game/play room is for me. Hee hee!!

So there it is folks. The tale of two spoils - me, by my husband and my boy, spoiled by me!

Oh yah - I did buy him about $80 worth of clothes too... LOL

The Start of Something New

2009-01-24T15:49:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I thought I'd start a blog. It seems to be the rage and sometimes I just have to get IT out! You know what the 'it' is... It's the annoying voices in our own head, the voices that we hold back, shush and smother with that pillow so IT won't make us look bad. The truth is, it's much better to unleash the voices. It's better for our sanity to voice what we are REALLY thinking at times or at least have some outlet for them. Unfortunately, if we let those crazy voices out too much we're viewed as crazy. Fortunately, we all have those 'crazy voices' in our head and that's nothing to be ashamed about! So I say, let those voices out - let them be heard! At least then we will gain at least some of our sanity back, right?

A New Leas On Life

Shop-a-holics Anonymous Please!

Mother's Day 2011

Wow, really?

Dear Dad...

Christmas in July!

A New Love

Fourth of July

Ramblings of a Hurt Heart

Winner of Goat Milk Soap Giveaway!

Bootcamp!

Got Soap? Review & Giveaway (6/20) **CLOSED**

It's Been a While...

Wordless Wednesday : Happy Family

A Common Goal: Weight Loss

2010: A New Year

Goodbye & HELLO!

"It's All About You"

Vietnam: Arrival - Day 1

The Holidays are Upon Us!

Snow in Sacramento?

Vietnam: Traveling - Day 1 (Partial)

I'm BAAACK!

I'm Going...

Kohl's Gift Card WINNER!

Mitten Gloves - Pay It Forward Giveaway! **CLOSED**

esbaby Baby!!

Under Construction

Wordless Wednesday - Coach

Wordless Wednesday - Family Love!

Thoughtful Thursday

Wordless Wednesday - Ah... the love

Wordless Wednesday - My Love, My Life

Eating Healthier?

A Blog for Cub

Not the Biggest Loser...

*Blurble Blurble*

Motivation

Who's the Smartipants?

CSN Rug

Applecheeks AGAIN!

Thirsties & 15% Off!

DryBees Bum!

GADBaby Dipes

Applecheeks!

Got Wool?

Almost 8 Months!

Apple Cheeks!

Smartipants!!!

another sleepless night...

Another Giveaway!

Luvin' the Cub!

See Kai Run!

Bummis!

Fuzzi Bunz!!!

Another Giveaway!

Amanda's Fuzzi Bunz Giveaway!!

... and he's OUT!!!

Bummis Giveaway!!!

We've Made It!!!

It's So Worth It!

Pears, Sweet Potato, Avocado & Potato

The Curse of the Strong Woman

Back to Work

Parenting Know-It-All

Pears!

Mommies & Playdates

A New Bouncer

Growing!

Sacrifices

The Start of Laughter...

The Opposite Disposition

... and her lives ran out...

A Night Off...

Chuc Mung Nam Moi!

The Tale of Two Spoils

The Start of Something New

Got Soap? Review & Giveaway (6/20) CLOSED

Mitten Gloves - Pay It Forward Giveaway! CLOSED

Blurble Blurble