More than a Mom

Wednesday Wishes #16

2010-04-14T08:11:00.001-04:00

The Seattle Smiths Wishful Wednesday topic this week is all about diet. I wish I had never-ending funds to donate to ______charity.

This is a topic I've actually thought of on many occasions. I would definitely donate to the Susan G. Koman foundation. I strongly feel that cancer is something we can find a cure for, and so many people suffer from cancer or know someone who has/is, that I'd gladly donate to them regularly if I could.

My husband and I have always talked about starting a scholarship fund for students who pay their own way through college - for whatever reason that may be. Of course I don't know the details of how we'd work that out, but if we won the lottery, we'd figure it out.

Cincinnati Children's Hospital would also get donations from our family. When AZ was a week old, she spent a week there because she had MRSA staph infection. Though it cost us a lot of money, even with insurance, the staff there was incredibly friendly and always willing to console me through my ever-flowing tears and emotions, and they answered all of my questions so that I could understand what was going on. Plus, AZ has been to the ER there when she needed an anti-nausea medication because she couldn't even keep water down. AND WC got stitches in their ER. They would get lots of donations.

And because Cincinnati Shriner's Hospitals for Children is where we've been going for almost a year for WC's burns, they'd also get a TON of our donations. We've been going there for so long now, and everyone is always so nice and attentive. And we've not had to pay a penny for WC's care. Shriner's Hospitals for Children is an amazing organization. There's no end date for WC's visits there, as of yet, so in my heart they are quite a deserving hospital to receive donations. Plus, WC gets to pick a gift at the end of each visit. How nice is that!

I also feel that the Ronald McDonald House is a charity worth donating to. My family, on multiple occasions, has had to stay at the Ronald McDonald House when different family members have been in the hospital. That charity would get our donations.

What charities would you donate to?

Post It Note Tuesday #13

2010-04-13T08:37:00.002-04:00

It's Post It Note Tuesday time, so stop on over at Supah Mommy's place to link up and check out all the excitement!

A Lot of Catchin' Up To Do

2010-04-09T09:32:00.010-04:00

I have been unbelievably laaaaazy with my blog over the last few days. I don't know why I'm in a funk, but I'm about to bombard my blog with one GIGANTIC post to try and catch up. Hope you don't mind.

I missed Thankful Thursday, and there are always things to be thankful for. So here's my Thursday post a day late...

Thank you, dear daughter, for getting up at 6:30am. Seriously. You need to sleep in until 8am please.

Thank you, husband. You know what you did.

Thank you, Dish, for sending out our new receiver. Only, the smart card didn't work and I had to figure all of that out over the phone. And I lost everything that had been recorded, including Disney shows we no longer get because we cut our cable back. And why am I missing channels? Not a fan of yours at the moment. Can you tell?

Thank you, self, for the horrible mood you've been in lately. What the hell? I'm not even PMSing - I don't think.

Thank you, weather, for being gorgeous one day and then only in the 40s the next. Love having to explain to my children that it's too cold to play outside when we've been able to enjoy the outside so much lately.

Thank you, kids, for being so much fun to play with. It really is fun when we get to play outside.

Thank you, guy at Home Depot who helped me load hundreds of pounds of sand into my trunk. My kids better know how much I love them. A woman who must keep her house clean AND who buys sand for her children. Those two things do not go together.

Thank you, Mom, for sending the kids the cutest Easter gifts.

Thank you, family, for an amazing Easter weekend. Was that really just last week?

For more Thank Yous, you should go check out Our Imperfect Life and The Daily Dribbles.

And now for today. There is the neatest thing going on. It's the

hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom. You really should go check them out. Join in the party, maybe find some new blogs and people to adore, and quite possibly even win a few prizes along the way.
I'd personally like to win any of the following prizes in no particular order: 15, 23, 31, 32, 37, 39, 49, 52, 55, 61, 70, 71, 73, 74, 87, 88, 100, 107, usc3, usc8, usc15, usc32, usc35, usc36, usc37, usc39, usc40, usc41, usc44. Thank you all for donating such awesome prizes!

Wanna know what I'd like to win? Then go check 'em out! There are AMAZING prizes out there. What a fabulous way to find other blogs to love!

Happy Ultimate Blog Party!

And I can't forget Friday Follow.
sponsored by and hosted by Midday Escapades, One 2 Try, and Hearts Make Families.

To join in this fun, Link up your blog and URL using the MckLinky below. You only need to do this on one blog to be seen on all the blog hops. Them grab the Friday Follow button and put it in your post. Follow those fabulous hostesses mentioned up there, and start finding blogs you want to follow. Please remember to comment on new blogs you find that you are from Friday Follow. And, to be nice, follow your new followers back.

Happy Friday Follow!

Ok. I think that about sums up my post today. I'm looking forward to meeting lots of new bloggers! Have a great weekend, everyone!

Wednesday Wishes #15

2010-04-07T06:33:00.001-04:00

The Seattle Smiths Wishful Wednesday topic this week is all about diet. I wish I had the willpower to stay on one particular diet and it would be...

I can honestly say that I've never been on a diet program, and I probably never will be. I LOVE food, and I won't deny myself a taste of something, so diets don't exist for me. I do, however, wish that I could stick to a workout program.

I definitely have 15-20 extra poundage that I'd like to lose, and I know if I exercised on a regular basis that it would come off. I've done various pilates programs, and I saw results, but those ended when I got pregnant with AZ. I've also tried the P90X workout program, and it kicked my butt - and not in a good way. Those workouts are at least an hour a day, and though I saw results in my arms almost immediately, it was too time consuming for my schedule. I know I sound lazy, but I was driving myself crazy with no down time. And working out is NOT down time.

So, I'm on the hunt for a workout program that works for me in my schedule. I just put some 10-minute workout videos in my instant queue on Netflix, so we'll see how those go. And I'll also be getting the 30 day shred Jillian Michaels DVD soon, too. Gotta love Netflix. What workouts have you done where you've gotten noticeable results?

Do you have any other wishes this week?

Post-It Note Tuesday #12

2010-04-06T08:23:00.004-04:00

It's Post It Note Tuesday time, so stop on over at Supah Mommy's place to link up and check out all the excitement!

Have a Wonderful Easter Weekend!

2010-04-02T19:36:00.001-04:00

Glitter Graphics & Comments

I hope everyone has a WONDERFUL Easter weekend surrounded by family and friends.

Glitter Graphics & Comments

Thrifty Thursday #15

2010-04-01T06:06:00.000-04:00

I spent most of my adolescent years in the southern part of Georgia. I was not a stranger to rifles and I was very aware of hunting season. I've seen my fair share of deer, and they weren't pretty like Bambi. I don't have anything against my hunting friends, but never in a million years would I have suspected that I could be a hunter. Me? No way. However, I have recently discovered my predator within. My prey, you ask? The GROCERY STORE.

In my ever growing and expanding world of couponing and finding good deals, I have come to the realization that couponers and shopping have many similarities to the hunter and hunted, the predator and prey. As the couponing-good-deal-hunter, I stalk various blogs and coupon sites to get coupons and learn about the unbeatable deals. I compare. I calculate. I wait until just the right moment. Then I pounce.

I finally went to the grocery store for a big run again. I hadn't gone grocery shopping, except for milk and produce, since the last Kroger Mega Sale. During this sale, including buying things that weren't part of this sale (like about 20lbs of meat, 4 gallons of milk, yogurt, produce, etc.), I bought $347.13 worth of groceries for $182.53. I saved $164.60, or 47%, or my total amount spent. Not too bad, but I was a little disappointed that I spent more than I saved. Like when a hunter doesn't get the size buck he's looking for after waiting in the hunting stands all day. This trip also included 14 lbs of FREE cat litter, a FREE bottle of vitamin water, and FREE Helluva Good dip, as well as some money makers. And I made $2.25 when I bought pasta, tuna, and that bottle of water. All in all, I'd say I walked away a winner. I successfully walked away with awesome deals, and I've replenished and added to my stockpile.

And the good thing about what I do? My hunting season never ends!

Wednesday Wishes #14

2010-03-31T06:34:00.003-04:00

The Seattle Smiths topic this week is about Easter. I wish I could re-live one Easter memory from my childhood, and it would be the Easter that... I don't remember a lot about Easter from my childhood, but I do remember when I was really young that we'd go to church as a family. Then we'd come home from church and the Easter Bunny would have magically left our Easter baskets out for us while we were gone. Now I know that my dad just church left early or came to church late. And our baskets would be full of goodies. That's really my only Easter memory as a kid.

Now that I'm a parent, I'd like to start family traditions with my kids, and leave them with wonderful memories of their childhoods. My kids will be surrounded by their favorite cousins, "Oma" and "Pawpaw", two uncles and an aunt this Easter weekend. I'm putting together cute little Easter baskets for them for Easter day. We're going on an Easter Egg hunt on Saturday at my daughter's preschool, which includes some crafts and refreshments. That night we'll have a big dinner with everyone. I'm wishing for it to be a wonderful Easter weekend.

I have a couple other wishes this week, too. I finally found and signed up for some graduate hours, 3 semester hours to be precise. So my first wish is that I get through these hours quickly and pass the classes. Gotta love trying to keep my teaching licence up to date, though I'm not currently teaching. I also wish that the class I want to sign up for my 4th semester hour doesn't get cancelled.

Coupon elves. I wish there was something such as coupon elves that could cut and sort my coupons for me. That sure would be nice.

And I have a giveaway wish! The Bragging Mommy is hosting the cutest giveaway for Pillow Pets! AZ actually got one of these when she was a baby. It's a giraffe, and we LOVE it! I would really love winning the snuggly puppy for my son!

Guessing All The Way is also hosting a giveaway for a Dream Baby Retractable Gate, and I'd love to win this for either our playroom stairs or one of my pregnant sisters!

Do you have any wishes this week?

Post It Note Tuesday #11

2010-03-30T06:58:00.002-04:00

It's Post It Note Tuesday time, so stop on over at Supah Mommy's place to link up and check out all the excitement!

Friday's Funny Phrases #10 with some FF#3

2010-03-26T06:31:00.004-04:00

So, while the kids were eating dinner at the table one night, the husband and I are unloading the dishwasher. AZ says, "Daddy's not supposed to do the dishes. Just Mommy. Daddy is supposed to be at the computer." I've never laughed so hard! Apparently AZ has learned that Mommy does most of the cleaning around here. Thanks for recognizing all of Mommy's hard work, sweet AZ, even if it is in your own way.

Since visiting my pregnant sister, AZ has been obsessed with babies coming out of the belly. She says to me, "Mommy there's a little mommy in my belly, and it's getting bigger and bigger and bigger and will break my belly." I tried explaining to her that she was too little to have a baby in her belly, and that Mommy and Daddy want her to have a college education and a husband before getting a baby in her belly. She agreed. :) It's a deal.

Those were just a couple of funnies I remember from the week. I know there were more, but "mommy-brain" buried them deep enough I can't recall them at the moment.

And let's not forget that it's FRIDAY! Yay! Time for another Friday Follow MEME! This is such a great way to find new blogs to love and get new followers at the same time!

If you want to join the fun, this is what you need to do:
*Use the McLinky below to link up your blog. This will link you up to ALL the blogs that have this McLinky.
*Follow the first three hostesses below: Midday Escapades, One 2 Try, and Hearts Make Families.
*Create a post on your blog with the Friday Follow Button and sponsor button.
*Peruse through the blog list to find some you like and follow them. Be sure to leave a comment letting the blogger know you are from Friday Follow.
*And finally, if you get new followers from Friday Follow, be sure to follow them back.

Sponsored by: Be sure to put the sponsor button in this post and on your sidebar for a chance to win $100! Three winners, during the week of March 26- April 2, 2010 will be chosen at random via random.org and the Friday Follow Link System. If you win, you'll be notified by email and have 24 hours to claim your $100 cash prize. The prize is payable by Paypal or by a check from Vitality Products. This contest is open to US and Canada residents and ends at midnight on April 2, 2010. I'm sure hoping to win this one! Good luck to you, too!

Thankful Thursday #4

2010-03-25T07:02:00.001-04:00

Thank you, husband, for making my coffee before you left for work a few days this week. It was so nice to come downstairs and smell my yummy goodness waiting for me. You're the best.

Thank you, guitar string, for not damaging my child while he was strumming you. Though, you did leave a mark on his hand, I know it could have been way worse.

Thank you, sunshine. You have to stick around!

Thank you, God, for letting my sister be OK. It was great seeing her and spending time with her, her husband, and her baby in her belly. Thank you for keeping them in your care.

Thank you, son, for constantly turning the t.v. off. Seriously, Samsung, your buttons should not be within the reach of toddlers.

Thank you, kids, for finally starting to sleep in until close to 8am. This completely rocks!

Now go check out Our Imperfect Life and The Daily Dribbles and all their thank yous!
Happy Thursday!

Wednesday Wishes #13

2010-03-24T08:30:00.001-04:00

So, the Wishful Wednesday topic over at The Seattle Smiths is 'I wish I could afford this ______ handbag without putting a dent in my pocketbook!'

Well, before this past Christmas, I would have stated that I'd love a Coach or Louis Vuitton purse. My wonderful sister gave me this Louis Vuitton wallet in 2007 for being in her wedding. Isn't she the best!! I will probably use this wallet FOREVER!
I always thought it'd be nice to have a purse to go along with it. I mean, who doesn't want a matching purse and wallet, right? So, I guess it'd be nice to have a Louis Vuitton bag - one day. I mean, if we ever win the lottery. :)

Well this past Christmas, my husband completely surprised me with this Coach purse! I almost fell over dead. He had always thought and voiced that my obsession with designer bags was pretty silly. He could not fathom spending that much money on a purse. I mean, after all, I have dozens of regular purses in the closet. Why can't I use one of those? He'd NEVER buy a purse like that for me. So when I opened my fabulous present on Christmas morning, my heart skipped a beat a two. I love it!
So, in answer to this week's topic, I'm good. Unless, of course, we win the lottery. Then Louis Vuitton, here I come!

And for my other wishes for this week:
It'd be wonderful if the weather would figure itself out. This hot-cold stuff is driving me crazy! I wish it'd just be nice out already. I'm so ready to go outside and play with my kids on a regular basis.

And I wish it wasn't so difficult for me to find 4 semester hours to complete before May in order for me to keep my teaching licence from expiring. I guess in all honesty, it wouldn't be so hard if I hadn't procrastinated such a long time. It's stressing me out, and I just wish I was done with it already.

Those are my wishes this week. What are yours?

Post It Note Tuesday #10

2010-03-23T06:33:00.007-04:00

It's Post It Note Tuesday time, so stop on over at Supah Mommy's place to link up and check out all the excitement!

Happy Birthday to my Wonderful Husband

2010-03-22T06:36:00.001-04:00

photo courtesy of wicki_wicki

My wonderful husband had a birthday over the weekend, and I just want to share with you what an amazing man he is. For his birthday weekend, we went on a weekend trip to my sister's house. Isn't he the best?!? I certainly think so. He knows how much it means to me to see my family, especially since I don't see them very often. So, in honor of my husband and his birthday, I am going to gush over him just a bit.

In just 31 years, my husband has turned into a wonderful man. A man who loves me and our family. A man who makes sacrifices for us, who works hard so I can stop working from home and focus more on our kids. He's a man who tries and succeeds in making me happy. So here are just 31 little reasons why I love my husband and truly appreciate him and all he does:

1. He puts the toilet seat down. AND the toilet lid. (I know - he rocks, right?!)
2. He lets me sleep in on the weekends. I have the opportunity to sleep until 9 or 9:30am at least once on the weekends, while he takes the kids for the morning. If you know me, you know I LOVE my sleep. I wish I could do without it, but I just can't.
3. On the weekends, he cooks us breakfast - like omelets, or eggs in a nest, with bacon, etc. And it's always yummy.
4. He takes care of taking the trash out. It's just one of those jobs that I don't like doing, so he does that. And he takes the cans and recycle bins out, too.
5. He will throw laundry in when it needs to get done. He doesn't fold, but he'll wash them for me!
6. He loves to garden and has turned his hobby into something spectacular. Our family really enjoys the tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, beans, onions, broccoli, etc. that he grows for us. I love that he has a green thumb, and I'm really looking forward to our fruit trees.
7. He leaves me little surprises, like little notes, a card, or some Dove Dark Chocolate. Or he'll turn the electric blanket on before I get into bed. He's sweet like that.
8. He's willing to buy me tampons. Enough said.
9. He goes to the grocery store, probably at least once a week, after work to pick up one or two items I've forgotten or need for dinner.
10. He takes care of the big things for us - setting up the kids' 529 accounts, our re-fi stuff, insurance stuff, etc. He does those big things so I won't have to. I get all confused anyway.
11. He lets me be in charge of the remote control. Seriously!
12. We go to the park or preschool functions as a family.
13. He'll go to church with me, even though his beliefs don't match mine. He does it for me and the kids.
14. He doesn't hesitate to give the kids a bath. It gives me a little break, so he does it.
15. He's so smart. He knows so much more than I do about so much more stuff than I do. I really look up to him.
16. He's LOYAL, to me, to us, to our kids, to his family, to my family, and to our friends.
17. He supports me, not only financially, but emotionally. He's there when I need him.
18. Every now and then if I'm out all day running errands, I will come home to find that he's vacuumed or done the dishes, or done both.
19. He continues to hang picture frames on our walls, even though he thinks there are too many. I'm pretty sure I'm a chip off the ol' block, Mema.
20. He was there for me in college when I felt that NO ONE ELSE IN THE WORLD was. I'm pretty sure he kept me alive!
21. He appreciates me and everything I do for our family. He knows I do a lot, and he recognizes me for my efforts.
22. He is half the reason for our two beautiful children. I think it's his greatest work ever.
23. This May he will be graduating from graduate school. He's an extremely hard worker, who's done night classes for the last few years in order to further his education. I'm so proud of him.
24. He doesn't think I'm crazy, and I'm pretty sure I am.
25. He isn't afraid of my past, and he doesn't judge me for it. He knows how far I've come, and he's helped me so much along the way.
26. He lets me spend our money to decorate our house the way I want it to be.
27. He encourages me to go out without the kids to have fun on my own.
28. He supports the decisions I make as a mom. He backs me up on parenting theories and things I try.
29. He doesn't complain when the house is dirty, when dinner is at 9pm, if the new recipe I tried is disgusting, or when I'm PMS-ing.
30. He scoops the cat poop. When I became pregnant and wasn't allowed to do that anymore, he took over. Unfortunately for him, I never really reclaimed that chore.
And finally, reason number 31. He LOVES me for me. I'm a priority to him. He makes me feel important and worthy, and he brings me immense joy. He doesn't see all the flaws in me that I see. And if he does, he loves me anyway.

Friday Follow #2

2010-03-19T09:16:00.003-04:00

I had so much fun finding new blogs last Friday that I just HAD to participate this week, too! This week's Friday Follow is sponsored by Beas Gift Baskets.

If you want to join the fun, this is what you need to do:
*Use the McLinky below to link up your blog. This will link you up to ALL the blogs that have this McLinky. I still think that's so cool!
*Follow the first three hostesses: Midday Escapades, One 2 Try, and Hearts Make Families.
*Create a post on your blog with the Friday Follow Button AND sponsor button.
*Take a gander through the blog list to find some you like and follow them. Be sure to leave a comment letting the blogger know you are from Friday Follow.
*And finally, if you get new followers from Friday Follow, be sure to follow them back.

I hope you're having as much fun as I am! Happy Friday to everyone!

Thankful Thursday #3

2010-03-18T11:25:00.001-04:00

Hello Thankful Thursday. Here we go again...

Thank you, oh sweet red wine. You are delicious, and you make my nights so lovely. I missed you dearly.

To my darling daughter, AZ, thank you so much for screaming out my name countless times for over an hour and a half after you went to bed. I gave you two band aids. You don't need another one for your bitten off finger nail. I love you, but Mommy needs more wine. (KIDDING - sort of).

Hello hot hubby. Thank you for being so smart and having the agility of a cat. Thank you for finally getting that mouse out of our house. I feel SO much better now.

Sadie Cat, thank you for playing with your rodents. Someone needs to teach you to ATTACK and KILL. Keep up the good work, kitty.

Thank you, days that keep ticking off the calendar. Only 31 work days left. Then I'll officially be a stay at home mom! Yay!

Thank you son, for reminding me that you are of my blood. I absolutely adore that you eat spicy food and Botan rice with furikakinori in it. My little blond haired boy of Asian descent.

To all the bloggers who host giveaways and put in all that work for others, THANK YOU!

Because of The Coupon Scoop's giveaway, and even though I didn't win it, I was able to get the product. I blogged about wishing to win the giveaway, and the company commented and said they could make my dreams come true if I didn't win. And THEY DID! A huge thank you to Kleen Slate Concepts and The Coupon Scoop. My son and daughter love the dry erase paddles with markers. And I love that they're non-toxic and low odor! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Thank you, Pampers, for your overnight diapers that do not work. WC has never had issues with waking up wet in any of your other diapers until we tried out these. Am I disappointed? Yes. But I will continue to buy your other diapers when I have coupons. I personally think your diapers, with the overnights being an exception, are the best out there for my kids' butts.

Don't forget to check out Our Imperfect Life and The Daily Dribbles who got me started in all these Thank Yous!

Wednesday Wishes #12

2010-03-17T10:12:00.004-04:00

At this moment, I wish that my headache would go away. Boo on headaches. I actually think it's from holding the phone with my shoulder and ear yesterday. OK - lesson learned.

I am also wishing and hoping that all the sickness is done and over and out of my house. WC and AZ took turns vomiting and being sick over the weekend. I think they're done. I hope. And at least they weren't sick at the same time.

I have always loved Melissa & Doug products for my kids, and was very excited when I learned that Guessing All The Way is hosting a giveaway for a Melissa & Doug standing easel. I would love to win this giveaway for AZ and WC. They both love to color and paint, so this would be fabulous! We love all our Melissa & Doug puzzles, so I'm sure we'd love this product as well.

Snuggles. I wish my kids would snuggle with me forever. It's going to break my heart one day when they will barely hug me. I love my kids and their snuggles.

And, I recently stumbled upon The Seattle Smiths blog, and I was excited to see that Kelsey has a Wishful Wednesday! So from now on, I will include her link and image and participate in her Wishful Wednesdays. Yay!

Her topic this week: I wish I could win the lottery REAL soon, and I would hope to travel the world and expose my kids to all that I possibly could. I'd hope to pay off our school loans (before we're 40 years old) and possibly get a house with an updated kitchen and bathrooms and a big enough yard so my husband could have the garden of his dreams. And I'd buy all organic food because I could afford it. Oh, and a minivan. That's everyone's dream car, right?

Post It Note Tuesday #9

2010-03-16T10:22:00.007-04:00

Post It Notes provided by Supah Mommy.

Friday Follow 3/12

2010-03-12T09:41:00.008-05:00

I've seen this going around for weeks now, and I've finally decided to participate in my first ever Friday Follow. I'm always happy to find and enjoy new blogs, so I hope that others out there will find and enjoy mine as well.
If you want to join the fun, this is what you need to do:
*Use the McLinky below to link up your blog. This will link you up to ALL the blogs that have this McLinky. That's pretty neat!
*Follow the first three hostesses below: Midday Escapades, One 2 Try, and Hearts Make Families.
*Create a post on your blog with the Friday Follow Button and sponsor button.
*Peruse through the blog list to find some you like and follow them. Be sure to leave a comment letting the blogger know you are from Friday Follow.
*And finally, if you get new followers from Friday Follow, be sure to follow them back.

Sponsored by: Easy, peasy, right? I guess we'll see!

Friday's Funny Phrases #9

2010-03-12T07:13:00.005-05:00

Alright, my husband is a bit sarcastic. And that's putting it lightly. Well, apparently AZ has taken notice of this. The other night, JD made dinner, and I was just exhausted. I sat down at the computer to have just a few minutes to myself. The kids were eating, and JD took his food and sat with them at the table. Well, he started pestering me (and I KNOW I should have gotten my dinner and headed to the table right at that moment) to come eat, and I begged for just a minute. JD was trying to get AZ to call out things to me, and instead, she looks at him and says, "Daddy, you're mean to Mommy." Smile.

My dear son, WC, during a recent diaper changed stated, "My junk is in there." And I close up his diaper and he says, "I can't reach it." And at another diaper changed where there's poo involved, I ask him, "What's in your diaper?" He says, "My junk is in there." I guess he's aware of his boy parts now.

For Christmas, the kids got dress up clothes and accessories, including tiaras, wands, etc. Well, tiara wearing WC came up to me, and says, "What do you want for Christmas?" meaning, what are your wishes? I start listing my wishes: happy kids, healthy kids, happy bellies, lots of sleep - and right after I say that last one, AZ interjects a big "NO. No sleep for Mommy. Not yet." And she only speaks the truth.

While holding WC, he likes to put his mouth on my cheeks and blow to make raspberries. I don't mind it too much, as he loves to do it. And while we were enjoying this activity, he decided to bite my cheek. Who can blame the poor kid for biting when I nibble on him ALL THE TIME?? (Thanks for that Mema, by the way). Anyway, I say, "Ouch, WC." He quickly responds, (very apologetically)"Sorry Mommy. (very proudly)I BITE. " Oh, I can't live without this kid. You know, the one who just took all his clothes off.

AZ, or Little Miss Sassafrass as I like to call her these days, refused to stay in her room during nap/rest time. So, she says to me, "I don't want to be nice anymore today. No fruit snacks for me, no suckers, and no computer. Tomorrow I will sleep well last night and then I can have computer." What a girl I have! And during said nap time, I tell her she has to just sit and color while Mommy takes a break. Her response: "I don't want to sit on the couch, I don't want to color. I just want to play. Those are the rules."

Thankful Thursday #2

2010-03-11T10:53:00.003-05:00

It's Thankful Thursday time again!

Thank you, warmer spring time weather. I love that you have arrived! And thank you, allergies, who have to cling onto spring time and try and ruin a good thing.

Thank you, WC and AZ, for having such an internal clock that no matter what time you go to bed, you are up by 7am on the dot.

Thank you, pbskids.org, for turning my loving 3 & 1/2 year old into a computer hog.

Thank you, Dr. at Urgent Care, who prescribed me an antibiotic that is impossible to take as directed. 4 times a day, but one hour before eating and at least two hours after eating. Really??

Thank you, AZ's new preschool, for not having any morning spots open for her. Hopefully the waiting list will pay off for us.

Thank you, husband, for last week volunteering me, while I was making dinner Friday night, to make a carrot cake from scratch for Saturday afternoon. I didn't mind making it, but really didn't enjoy heading out for carrots and other necessary ingredients at 9:30pm on my Friday night and having to stay up to closet to midnight baking. I know you're just trying to prepare me for when our kids are older, but jeez.

Thank you, Win Wok. Your food is so yummy, and I love having options to order in. Thank you for delivering! And thank you for not writing our credit card number on the menu this time. That's really an AWFUL system you have there.

And, thank you, GOD, for another wonderful week with my family. Thank you for their laughter and our happiness.

Don't forget to check out Our Imperfect Life and The Daily Dribbles who got me started in all these Thank Yous!

Thrifty Thursday #14

2010-03-11T08:24:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite things to do is save money, whether that's using coupons and match ups, earning free money (not the scam kind of free money, but real free money), selling items on eBay, finding a good deal, or winning an awesome giveaway.

I am definitely saving the most money right now by couponing and shopping according to what's on sale. This makes my meal planning a little more complex, but is definitely worth it in the end. I buy in bulk. I don't clear the grocer's shelves or anything like that, but I stockpile. And because I do that, I usually will prepare meats in marinades and freeze them so dinner is easy during the week. I am fortunate enough to have the shelving space in the basement, as well as the deep freeze. I HATE buying things at full price, but it's inevitable on items such as fresh produce and milk sometimes. I'd say, that for the most part, I am getting most of our things (food, toiletries, etc.) on sale and discounted. Yahoo! BUT I know I could still do better. I could buy more Sunday papers, order specific coupons either through eBay or a coupon clipping service, and shop in other grocery stores besides just Kroger. I'll get there. But right now, I think I'm doing OK.

Another way I am being thrifty is by earning free money online. If you have never heard of, or you are not using, SwagBucks, you really should sign up. Swagbucks is an online search engine that rewards you for searching the Internet.

Seriously, I just downloaded their toolbar, made them my homepage, and started using them as I would have google. Some searches earn Swagbucks, and some don't. And sometimes they giveaway free codes for bucks. At this moment, I have enough swagbucks to earn multiple gift cards to different places. Personally, I will continue to use Swagbucks to earn gift cards for Christmas shopping. It's a way for me to be frugal. If you'd like to sign up, you'll instantly get 30 free swagbucks to start you on your money saving journey.

I also earn FREE money through something called YouData. Through YouData, you fill out an extensive questionnaire about your likes. Then according to your preferences, you'll see ads. Click those ads to get paid. The advertisers are paying you to look at their products - the products you've said you're interested in. The money you earn gets sent directly to your paypal account every Friday. It's not a huge money maker, but in my book, every penny earned helps and every penny saved adds up. I use my paypal money to make purchases online, and since most of the money in my account was either earned through YouData or selling on eBay, in my book, it's FREE money.

And lastly, I help save my family money and remain frugal by entering giveaways hosted by other blogs. Sometimes I win. Sometimes I don't. For me, I enjoy reading the blogs I'm subscribed to, and if they're offering a giveaway on a product I'm interested in, bonus! So far, I have won a pair of Lee Jeans through their Facebook fan page, a box of goodies from Japan from Our Imperfect Life, an awesome cookbook from CouponingFor4 called Don't Panic - Dinner's In The Freezer, and a DVD called Splish! Splosh! Splash! Thomas and Friends from Frugal Mom Knows Best. I desperately needed a new pair of jeans, WC adores Thomas, and I love having made meals in the freezer.

Well, this is what I do to try to save our hard earned dollars and stretch them as far as they can be stretched. If you know of more ways I can save, please share! I'd love to hear how you are saving you and your family money.

Wednesday Wishes #11

2010-03-10T19:29:00.006-05:00

I really wish that AZ would have gotten into the 4 year old 3-day morning class at preschool. So, since she didn't, she'll go to the afternoon classes - unless we get a call for being on the waiting list. I'm making a wish that whatever class she ends up in, that it's the right one for her and our family.

I wish that allergies weren't so bothersome. Ugh! But I wish the weather could stay this nice forever. I'm really enjoying all the walks I'm taking with the kids.

I wish people were nicer to one another. It's amazing how rude and unkind some people can be.

At this very moment, I wish that my son would STOP putting a blanket over his head and walking around. He just ran into the wall (unharmed). And I wish he'd stop spitting. And keep his clothes on. And take longer naps.

Couponing For 4 is hosting a giveaway for a $25 gift card to Kroger. I hope I win this, not only because it'll save us $25, but it'll totally raise my percentage saved on the receipt! :) The last few times I've been grocery shopping, I've saved at least 40%, so I'm rockin' it. And it looks like Coupon Clippin' Mommy, Cincinnati Cents , and The Mommy-Files are also hosting a giveaway for a $25 Kroger gift card. I really want in on these! :)

And while I'm entering giveaways, I couldn't resist the giveaway by Stay@HomeMomWhoKnew. I have entered to win a WanChai Ferry "Perfect Night In" prize pack consisting of a free entree, bowls, chopsticks, bamboo place mats, and fortune cookies. In addition, there's a $25 Target gift card. This sounds like the perfect (and thriftier) alternative to ordering in!

And I wish the kids would stay this snuggly, lovey, ticklish, and giggly forever. I adore when their laughter fills our house.

Post It Note Tuesday #8

2010-03-09T08:33:00.003-05:00

Post It Notes provided by Supah Mommy.

The Room of my Princess' Dreams

2010-03-08T12:38:00.004-05:00

Look at my pretty girl's pretty room! It's actually been done quite a while now, but I'm just now getting to the pictures and post. Her walls are two different shades of pink - can you tell it's her favorite color? And I painted different sized and different colored circles all over them. That's paint, no decals here. I would have done decals if the husband let me, but he is strongly opposed to sticking things like that to the walls. Oh well. I think her room turned out perfectly for her. Above her bed are handmade letters spelling out her name and the butterflies on the walls are made of nylon. Looks like perfection to me!

Not liking how I can't format these pictures the way I wanted. Hope it doesn't bug you the way it does me.

Dipping My Toes into the Decorating/Design World

2010-03-08T09:37:00.009-05:00

I recently received a sewing machine as a gift from my MIL, and I am so excited for all the possibilities that it brings. I'm looking forward to all the kids clothing and home projects I can make. And I just finished my very first sewing project last night.

Look at these pillows!
I know, I know. Four straight lines and hand stitched closed isn't too difficult, but I'm so proud of myself. I was able to get the fabric and pillow forms on sale for 40-50% off, I can't remember which, and I had an additional 20% off coupon. And $35 for two 20x20 pillows is a great price - I think.

The pillows are for my bedroom, which is slowly coming together. I haven't made a headboard yet, but imagine the red/burgundy color for that. I am actually thinking of buying another panel of the curtains and using that for the headboard material. What do you think?
So, we're slowly getting there. I need a couple of yellow candles for the sconces on the curtained wall. And opposite the curtains is a large blank wall above a long dresser. I'm thinking of getting a large oval mirror (framed in black) to hang above there, with a lamp on each side of that.

And speaking of lamps, the ones we have now do not go in this room. I may put them on the dresser to flank the mirror for now - that is until I redecorate our piano/sewing room or guest bedroom. I'd like either lamps or hanging lights like this for the bedside tables.
What do you think? I love doing this decorating thing! And I'm LOVING my room. Any pointers on making an awesome headboard?

Colorado Pens is a RUDE RUDE RUDE company to deal with!

2010-03-04T20:36:00.003-05:00

For all the mommy bloggers out there - I saw this on Frugal Mom Knows Best. I cannot believe that a professional company acted in such a rude manner towards someone who was trying to PROMOTE their company. I am astounded by this man's behavior, and I wanted to share it with everyone I can.

Thankful Thursday #1

2010-03-04T00:00:00.000-05:00

My first Thankful Thursday. Some Thursdays will be sincere thanks, some will be sarcastic, and some will be a combination of the two. So here goes:

Thank you, God, for me being born in the United States of America. And thank you for all the opportunities that brings to me and my family. Thank you for me being born when I was born. Plumbing, electricity, and modern technology are such blessings. Thank you for allowing me to know what it is to suffer so that I will not take for granted and so that I know what it is to enjoy and delight in everything. Thank you for forgiveness. Thank you for giving your son to us. Thank you for my husband, children, family, and friends. Thank you for my husband's job, our working vehicles, our home, our food, our community. Thank you for our trials and the lessons learned from them. Thank you for music and rainbows and beauty and nature. Thank you for LIFE. Thank you for choices. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Thank you, husband, for loving me and being there for me no matter what. Thank you for the opportunity to stay home with our children. Thank you for bringing me happiness and joy. Thank you for marrying me and giving me two of the most beautiful children on the planet. Thank you for your patience and your hard work. Thank you for your dedication to our family and your loyalty to our lives together. Thank you for being my partner and being on my team.

Thank you, AZ and WC, for loving me every single day and letting me start over each morning. Thank you for quickly forgiving me when I lose my temper or forget that you're just kids. Thank you for being a part of my life. Thank you for your innocence and laughter. Thank you for your existence.

Thank you family for being my family and making me who I am. I love you all down to my core.

Thank you to my close friends. Thank you for being there for me and being so much fun. Thank you for your friendship!

Thank you, William Graham Bell, for the invention of the telephone. My life would suck without your genius!

Thank you to the people who read my blog. I love knowing that I'm 'connecting' with people.

And I have to throw in a sarcastic one (or two) - THANK YOU, son, for getting sick and forcing us to cancel our trip to GA to see Mommy's family - the family I only get to see once or twice a year. Mommy is SO sad. :(

THANK YOU, to moi, for being one of the very lucky few to have Group B Strep.

Wednesday Wishes #10

2010-03-03T06:28:00.004-05:00

My 1st wish this week is to be completely healthy and for my family to also be equally healthy!

I wish the next couple of weeks go by really quickly so that I can go see my sister. :)

I also wish to win a giveaway hosted by The Coupon Scoop. She is giving away a two pack of Kleen Slate Concepts, and AZ would enjoy those immensely! And for my nephew, I'd like to win the book Danny the Dragon Meets Jimmy since he's so into dragons at the moment, also hosted by The Coupon Scoop.

I also entered a giveaway from She Saved for the cutest pillowcase dresses on the planet! I am hoping to win one for AZ. Aren't they the sweetest little things??

And yay for my wishes that have come true! And they do! :)

Post It Note Tuesday #7

2010-03-02T07:19:00.000-05:00

Post It Notes provided by Supah Mommy.

The Value of Family

2010-03-01T07:11:00.004-05:00

Mondays. Never the best day of the week, that's for sure. Well this Monday may just take the cake...

I live about 11 hours away from most of my family. I get to see them maybe once or twice a year, and I was SO excited about our trip that was supposed to be this week. Unfortunately, my 2 year old came down with strep throat and croup. And he just had strep two weeks ago. Poor little guy. And poor me. I must have cried rivers when I realized that we couldn't make our drive down to Georgia. I was so close to being able to see my family, my family whose distance makes my heart ache. I was so close. And I miss them soooooo much!

Living so far away from my family leaves my heart in pieces, and it's never whole until I see them. And it makes me want to teach my children the value of family, the importance of having family near by, and to remember to not take it for granted.

So, do me a favor today. Tell your family you love them. Hug them. Talk with them. Spend time with them. For me.

Friday's Funny Phrases #8

2010-02-26T07:25:00.001-05:00

So instead of skipping breakfast completely, which I'm guilty of more often than not, I decided to drink a Carnation Instant Breakfast. WC used to get these mixed in with his milk (per Dr. orders) for a while, so he knows he likes those. Well, I'm drinking my breakfast and I see he wants some, so I let him have a sip, which is more like him just sticking his tongue in my drink. Then I have some more, and he looks at me and says, "Mommy, drink me."

While holding WC, I ask him, "Where's Mommy's kisses?" He points to my lips and says, "Right there." Oh, I could just eat him up!

Thrifty Thursday #13

2010-02-25T06:49:00.004-05:00

You know I love me some coupons, and I'm happy to say that I'll be getting $30 of coupons from Home Made Simple. This booklet will include coupons for items like Dawn, Febreeze, etc. Thanks so much Coupon Gal.

How does some FREE baby food sound to some of you? Well, Beechnut is offering a free toddler welcome kit that includes a coupon for free products. Thank you CouponingFor4, Coupon Clippin' Mommy.

MomsByHeart showed me a great deal on FREE Right Guard deodorant at Kroger this week. It's on sale 10/$10 and there are $2 off 2 printable coupons. JD has so much deodorant already gotten from great deals, but can I pass up free? He's going to need more deodorant eventually, so I may as well add 4 more to the stockpile.

Another thing JD does not need more of is body wash, but again I cannot pass up FREE because he'll need it one day! Stockpiling Moms, A Thrifty Mom say I can get free Gillette Body Wash from Target this week. There was a coupon in the P&G insert from this past Sunday (thank goodness I got a paper this past weekend) for $4 off of 2 any Gillette Body wash or deodorant excluding trial sizes. Looks like I'll be getting 2 free body washes. JD is making out huge this week!

And while I'm at Target, I will get a few Tag reading books for AZ. She is absolutely IN LOVE with those books, and Stockpiling Moms just showed me a $3 off coupon. I'm going to start buying and saving for her birthday. Yay!

I love finding good deals! What goodies have you found this week??

Post It Note Tuesday #6

2010-02-23T07:05:00.001-05:00

Post It Notes provided by Supah Mommy.

My boy is officially 2!

2010-02-22T07:29:00.009-05:00

OH MY GOSH! My son is officially 2 years old. My baby, my last kid, my little man is growing up. I can't help but reflect a little over the two years of his life...

With WC, the OB and I set an induction date a few days before his official due date because my body was showing signs of readiness, and I was a wreck about what we'd do with AZ and how we'd plan everything if I went into labor naturally. And I'm sooooo thankful that we set a date, because had we not, I'm certain that he would have been born in the car on the side of the road instead of in the hospital. You see, we had record breaking blizzards that winter - like "it's illegal to drive on the road because there's so much snow and ice" type of blizzards. So, thank you, GOD, for taking care of us on that end.

Well, my hubby came home from grad school that night, we ate dinner (I ate a Subway 6" sandwich because I remembered how starved I was after having AZ) and left AZ in the care of my in-laws. We got to the hospital at 10pm that night and WC was born at 6:04 the next morning. They had to turn the pitocin off after about an hour or so because I was having a contraction every minute. Thank you, GOD, that I had an epidural that actually worked this time. And in no time flat, we were back home, and now a family of 4. AZ was just 19 months old, but she did exceptionally well with adjusting. Whew!

And before I knew it he was walking, and by the time he was 1 year old he only had two speeds: running and sleeping. And a year later, those are still his only speeds. Shortly after his 1st birthday, he fell and hit his eyebrow on the rocking chair, resulting in a trip to the ER and a stitch. And not long after that he had surgery to get tubes in his ears and get a bottom tooth repaired. That tooth came in with no enamel. The worst thing ever was when he opened the oven door after dinner was eaten and done, and badly burnt both of his hands. We're STILL recovering from that one. And of course there was the time he had to get x-rays on his arm because his older sister used it as a rope to climb into his crib. There's also the fact that he forced his toddler bed upon us because he kept climbing out of his crib.

Wow! When I see all of the things my boy has been through during his short little life so far in all grouped together, I must seem like the worst mother ever. Well, I am going to assure you - I am not. :) WC is a busy, busy, busy boy and I do my best to keep up. He's my snuggle bear and my sweet sweet little man.

Happy 2nd Birthday, WC! I hope you enjoyed your fabulous birthday party! I love you bunches and bunches and want nothing but the best for you!

Dear God,
Thank you so much the blessings in my life that you have given me. Thank you so much for my children. Please help me to be the best mom I can be for both of them, so that they can grow to know you. Help me to protect them the best that I can and be who I need to be for them.
In Christ Name. Amen.

Searching the Internet Like You Normally Would + SwagBucks = FREE MONEY

2010-02-19T06:19:00.001-05:00

Have you ever heard of Swagbucks?

Thanks to my SIL and so many blogs out there, I discovered Swagbucks a few months ago, and just by searching the Internet as I normally would - except now through Swagbucks - I have earned enough Swagbucks to purchase gift cards. It's like FREE MONEY, people! You can learn all about how Swagbucks works HERE. And if you want to take a gander, check out the bottom of my blog. Plus every Friday is Super SwagBucks Day, where you can earn extra bucks!

So sign up, keep searching online, start EARNING! Happy hunting!

Friday's Funny Phrases #7

2010-02-19T06:12:00.000-05:00

AZ has recently discovered that her favorite Uniqua doll from The Backyardigans can be undressed. Well, after the pony incident that cost me about 20 minutes in Kroger - the incident where she insisted on bringing in her pony and then somehow dropped it somewhere and cried as loud as she possibly could after I gave up looking after hunting through the entire store - I told AZ that if she wanted to take Uniqua into the store that she'd have to be dressed. There was no way I was going to look for Uniqua's clothing if it got dropped. Well, she couldn't put the clothes back on herself, so she gave the doll to me. Did I mention we're in the car on the way to the store? So, I stop at a stop sign in my neighborhood and get her dressed. I finish up, begin driving again while handing her the doll. And since AZ always insists that I have 2 hands on the wheel at all times now, she says, "Mommy you need more arms." Me: "I think ALL mommies could use more arms. I'd like to have arms like an octopus." AZ: "No, Mommy. Then you wouldn't have fingers." My smart little girl.

Thrifty Thursday #12

2010-02-18T07:25:00.006-05:00

I have read on MANY blogs, such as Freebies4Moms, CouponingFor4, Just Call Me Lucy, The Coupon Scoop, MomsByHeart, Luvin' Great Deals, Frugal Racing Fan Mommy, Stockpiling Moms, Nickels-n-Dimes, that there is an offer for a free full-sized bottle of Pantene if you are a member of Vocalpoint. I LOVE Pantene products!

And while browsing through all the wonderful blogs I follow, I learned from She Saved about some awesome deals this week. For example, you can get Starkist Tuna for $0.02 each at Target, and for only $0.04 at Walgreens you can get Crest Toothpaste. Thanks to The Coupon Scoop who also shared the Walgreens Crest deal.

If you love candles, Glade candles to be precise, MomsByHeart, A Thrifty Mom say you can get some for only $0.16 at Target! I love the clean linen scent! Heavenly.

Have you heard of any other good deals out there?? If so, please share!

Wednesday Wishes #9

2010-02-17T07:03:00.002-05:00

I am hoping and wishing this week that I do not have a disaster on my hands when I try to make two pillow covers on the sewing machine. I haven't sewed anything for 16 years. Seriously, I was in the 9th grade home-ec class. I really wish to do a fabulous job! I will post a picture of them no matter how they turn out...Wish me luck!

I entered a giveaway by Our Imperfect Life, who is offering some great goodies all the way from Japan. How awesome would this win be?? There was just not enough room in my suitcase to bring back a lot of things from my trip back in April, so I hope I win this giveaway!

And the giveaway hosted by Freebies 4 Mom is INCREDIBLE! Lucky for me I am already a member of E-bates, and I am soooooooo hoping to win the $100 to Macy's! What a fabulous giveaway, right!?!

Post It Note Tuesday #5

2010-02-16T06:59:00.002-05:00

Post It Notes provided by Supah Mommy.

Make Each Second Count

2010-02-15T06:58:00.001-05:00

photo by mewsgirl
Looking in the past can be a little dangerous. I see a life, a skinnier gal back then, where I really only had to worry about me. I could get up and go - just like that. I see STRUCTURE, clean and organized STRUCTURE. I see going out to eat whenever I want, going shopping whenever I want, just doing whatever I want. I see lots and lots of pre-kid fun. I see dates and parties and not too many responsibilities. I was a woman, a teacher, a wife.

And now...Clean organized structure is replaced with toys - everywhere. I see wrestling kids, happy squealing wrestling kids. I must take an extra 10 minutes to get kids ready, diaper bags packed, and kids in car seats before I leave for the simplest errand. I swear sometimes it takes longer to get the kids ready and in the car than the actual errand itself. I am a more tired woman, rounder in the midsection, too. I am doctor, teacher, pharmacist, cook, maid, servant, all powerful mommy to my kids, and wonderful WONDERFUL wife. (Right, JD?) I know the messes are temporary. My kids are going to grow up. I won't see happy squealing kids. Those will be replaced by grumpy teenage kids one day. They're only little once. Soon they'll learn to eat what's made for dinner...and lunch...and breakfast. They'll learn to sleep through the night all on their own. They'll become better listeners, bigger helpers, and continue to stay happy. They'll stop calling me "Mommy" and it'll break my heart. Simply put, they'll grow up.

So, what I guess I'm trying to say is, I need to live in the now. Be present in my family and my life now. And love every second of it!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T07:03:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone has a nice day today, and everyday. But may today be filled with lots of love, laughter, and moments that warm your heart. Oh, and CHOCOLATE!

Graphic from www.coolmyspacecomments.com

Thrifty Thursday #11

2010-02-11T07:52:00.003-05:00

Well, the last run I made in the Kroger Mega Sale was successful for me. I bought 94 items, many that were not included in the Mega Sale Event, and spent $125.42 while saving $111.88 (47%). The freezer in my basement is literally almost over flowing with food.

MoJoSavings showed me how to get FREE World's Best Cat Litter. It's through a rebate found on their site. I love getting free things, especially things I would have to get anyway. Thanks, MoJoSavings!

Another Facebook fan freebie...I got a coupon for buy 1 get 1 FREE carton of eggs by becoming a fan of Incredible Edible Eggs. And I can use my coupon on any brand. Thank you, Facebook. You are becoming quite the money saver for me!

And now I can get another coupon booklet, this one from BoxTops worth $10. Thank you to MomsByHeart for showing me how to get these coupons!

Every little bit saved helps. What good deals have you found?

Wednesday's Wishes #8

2010-02-10T14:14:00.006-05:00

As I sit here this afternoon, working on my Wednesday's Wishes post, both of my poor kids are sick and in bed. AZ and WC both have strep throat, so my biggest wish of all this week is that my kids get healthy and then stay healthy. It's so hard to see my babies not feeling well. A quick wish number two, I really hope I don't get sick while taking care of my little ones. Mommies don't get rest during the week, even if we do get sick. And I also hope hubby doesn't get sick either. GET HEALTHY, STAY HEALTHY.

Now for the "I hope I win this giveaway" wishes:

The-Mommy Files is hosting a giveaway for a DVD called "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Minnie's Bow-tique" and AZ would LOVE this! WC likes Mickey Mouse, too, but AZ is the bigger fan. I hope for her that we win this giveaway!

The cake I made for AZ's 3rd birthday

My Organized Chaos is giving away a Giant Daycare Combo Pack of I.D. Me Labels . With AZ in preschool, these would be VERY useful to have, especially in the winter months. I would I.D. everything, too! Hat, coat, boots, mittens, etc, etc, etc. I hope I win this giveaway!

What are you wishing for?

Post It Note Tuesday #4

2010-02-09T07:33:00.002-05:00

Post It Notes provided by Supah Mommy.

Holding Myself Accountable

2010-02-08T07:53:00.001-05:00

I was thinking the other day about my 2010 goals/resolutions and thought it'd be a good idea to go back through them to see how I'm doing. And I don't think I'm starting off so badly, either. Yay!

I can't say that I've lost any weight since the year has started, though I'm fabulous at maintaining. I have, however, started walking/jogging/running on the treadmill. So far I've been on the treadmill 3 days in a row. That's HUGE for me, as I am NOT a runner. I'm a big believer that I should only run if being chased or if I have to catch one of my kids. Therefore, the fact that I've been on the treadmill 3 days in a row is kind of a big deal to me. The first day I jogged/walked for a mile. It took me about 15 minutes to do, so it definitely isn't that time consuming. Bonus. I started off with no incline, then decided that if I wasn't running, that I'd walk on an incline. Day two wasn't quite as successful. I was only on the treadmill for about 5 minutes before children started having meltdowns. That ended that. Day 3 was also about 5 minutes because I thought, I bet I can get a mile in a lot faster if I bump the mph up to 5.5 instead of 5. Well, that wasn't such a good idea. New plan - see if I can get to one mile going 5 miles an hour on an incline of 5 without having to walk at all. Then I'll slowly start speeding up. I think that sounds reasonable. What do you think?

I have definitely been doing well saving money so far this year. I don't know how much I've spent on groceries since the year has begun off hand, but since these receipts are right on the desk, here are the figures from my last 3 grocery runs. I spent out of pocket $355.38 on a total of 270 items and SAVED $414.89. It appears I am definitely hitting my goal of saving above 30% on each grocery trip. Yay for me! But I still want to do better.

And I have started taking over the bills and finances. I know I still have a long way to go in order to have a full understanding of where all of our money goes, but I have at least begun that journey.

As for sending out greeting cards, I believe I am going to revise this goal. I had wanted to actually send something out to everyone for their birthday or anniversary or special occasion. And now, for the sake of being more frugal, I am going to say that you may get a card in the mail, or a phone call, or an e-card, or a combination of those. I'll do something so that you know I'm thinking of you, but it may not be a card in the mail - a card that will probably end up in the trash or recycling anyway. Do you think it's acceptable to send out e-cards for special occasions and such? I still don't know my stand on those, but there it is.

Doing more FUN things with the kids - now unless we count coloring, arts and crafts, reading books, or just general playing with them, we haven't done much with this goal yet. I could blame the cold weather, but I won't. No excuses, I've just been lazy.

The mom's group I'm in is helping me get some more "me" time, as is my wonderful husband. JD has been absolutely amazing this year. When possible, he lets me sleep in on Saturdays and takes on the kids by himself those mornings. And I've been enjoying book club and will be hosting Bunco soon. I like where this goal is headed. :)

I've definitely been slacking on even going to church this year, so I've made zero progress in deciding on becoming a member. I need to step up my game and get out the door on Sunday mornings. Just been lazy on this goal, too. Laziness is a goal killer, huh?

And lastly, I don't want to sweat the small stuff. I think with a child like WC, this goal is forced upon me whether I want it or not. He and AZ definitely show me what's important in life. I don't think I'm as crazy about the mess unless someone is coming over or it's just gotten out of hand.

It's midish-February and I'm not doing that bad. I definitely have areas that could be improved, but overall, I'd say I get a thumbs up. How are you doing on your goals/resolutions so far in 2010?

Thrifty Thursday #10

2010-02-04T07:45:00.026-05:00

I am excited that I will be getting another coupon booklet from ConAgra, thanks to CouponingFor4 and Surviving the Stores. This one will be for $17. And thanks to MoJoSavings, MomsbyHeart, Freebies4Mom, A Thrifty Mom I'll be getting 3 coupon booklets from HomeMade Simple worth over $30 each. AND Eat Better America is sending me a $10 copuon booklet. Thank you Freebies4Mom. Gotta love my coupons!

And here's why I LOVE coupons. At my Kroger Mega Sale event where you buy 10 participating items and receive $5 off your total, I saved $266.92 (56%) of my bill. The total was $473.51 brought down to $206.59 thanks to matching sale items with coupons! I would have saved more percentage wise, but I bought over 20 items that were not part of the Mega Sale, including a ham, 2 packs of bacon, 2 packs of hot dogs, 4 gallons of milk, 2 packs of chicken, 5 lbs of ground beef, 4 pounds of ground turkey, oil for hubby's car, breakfast waffles, koolaid, and produce. I managed to save $55 just for buying the participating sale items. But I got FREE International Delight Coffee Creamer (AGAIN!!) by being a fan on their Facebook page (I think). I couldn't find the Stacy's Pita chips, but I have a coupon to get a FREE bag of those for becoming a fan of theirs on Facebook. I got a large box of Post cereal for only .19, got FREE cans of Rotel Tomatoes (which were actually money makers where I earned .13-.18 cents a can because of overage), a FREE package of Quaker Quakes (made .51 on that because of overage), and FREE I Can't Believe It's Not Butter packs of margarine (and made .02 a pack on those because of overage). All in all, I walked out of Kroger with 153 items, and my head held high. The customer behind me could not believe what she was seeing as she watched my total continue to drop. She said, "I thought I did coupons. But YOU do coupons." I am so proud of myself! And this is the second time in my life where the manager has had to come over and put a key in the register to approve all of my coupons. I'll have to run back in this week (since the sale is continued) to get the Franks Redhot Sauce for only $0.19 a bottle and 7 other items to equal my 10. Love love love this! I am CONFIDENT that I will be able to eat out of my freezer and pantry for a month or two with no problems. Hooray!

On my second trip to Kroger, I only had a few coupons that I could combine with the Mega Sale, and I bought 2 things that were not in the sale at all. I bought 23 items, spending $23.37, but I saved $36.09 (60%) of my purchase! And when I saw the lady in front of me, with about the same number of items I had, spend over $90, I smiled for myself. I'm getting really good at this couponing thing!

My next trip will hopefully be just as good. The sale ends this Saturday, and I've got well over 25 coupons burning a whole in my coupon binder meant especially for this week! ;)

Sadie as a kitty, and Sage (RIP)

And since nothing beats the price of FREE, I'm also excited to report that I am going to be getting some Cats Pride cat litter (up to a $7 value) for FREE by uploading a picture of Sadie cat onto Catster. Thanks go out, in no particular order, to Moms By Heart, A Thrifty Mom, The Coupon Scoop, Stockpiling Moms, She Saved
I'll also be getting another FREE 1/2 gallon of chocolate milk with the purchase of a gallon of milk thanks to MoJoSavings, Freebies4Mom, MomsByHeart, Faithfully Frugal and Free. I never even give my kids chocolate milk (AZ says she doesn't like it), so this is a nice treat for WC who inhales the stuff, and it's hard for me to pass up FREE.

Another shout out to coupons because I can go to Target to get some games, specifically Pictureka Card Game because it'll only cost me $0.24 and I already have and enjoy Scrabble Slam Card Game and Monopoly Card Game. Thanks to my ever so loving printable coupons and The Coupon Scoop, Moms By Heart, Couponing For 4.

Now for those in my family (and maybe other readers, too)who have or are having children, here's a deal for you. The Step Start Walk N Ride is $5 at Wal-Mart this week. They are on clearance for $10, and you'll use the $5 off of 1 coupon found HERE. Thanks, MoJo Savings, A Thrifty Mom, The Coupon Scoop. My kids have this toy, and AZ was just playing with it last night. While at Wal-Mart, if you have any My Little Pony lovers, Coupon Gal says we can get 2 ponies for $2.50 each with the BOGO coupon HERE. Also for you is the opportunity to get a FREE carseat ID tag. If you're preggo or have had a baby within the last six months, you are eligible for this deal. I got my carseat ID tags free through the fire department. I think the tags are a great thing, just in case...I learned of this deal from Freebies4Mom.

I also signed up for a FREE Glade Fragrance Gift Pack from Right at Home. Hopefully I signed up in time since only the first 10,000 people are eligible. I learned about this deal through She Saved, CouponingFor4, Freebies4Mom, MoJoSavings, Frugal Racing Fan Mommy.

She Saved, CouponingFor4 also showed me a deal for a FREE subscription to Fitness magazine. Now, I didn't sign up for this one, but maybe my very fit relatives or readers would be interested!

So that's what I've done to be thrifty this week. What have you been doing to save you and your family a little dough?

Wednesday's Wishes #7

2010-02-03T06:45:00.003-05:00

Another giveaway wish for me to win - Faithfully Frugal and Free is hosting a giveaway for something called Teething Bling. How cool is it that your baby can chew safely on your jewelry? That would have been nice for me when my kids were in that stage. I'm hoping to win this to give to a friend or family member with a small baby or who is expecting. I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

I am desperately wishing that the months of February, March, and April FLY BY FOR ME! It's not that I don't want to live in each moment that may happen during those months, it's just that I am so very much looking forward to the month of May. Why? Well, I can't tell you yet. Have I mentioned that I have the BEST HUSBAND IN THE WORLD?! Without him, I would not be able to do this amazing thing that I'm going to be able to do in May. He must really love me!

I also wish that everyone continues to stay healthy this winter. Winter is almost over, right??

Post It Note Tuesday #3

2010-02-02T07:29:00.003-05:00

Post It Notes provided by Supah Mommy

Thank You, Old Wise One, Dr. Seuss

2010-02-01T06:23:00.000-05:00

Watchmen may possibly be one of the worst movies on the planet. And I mean worse than Star Wars kind of bad. And if you know me, you know that I'd almost rather have my eyes gouged out than have to watch Star Wars. However, a line of Watchmen has stuck with me and has been swirling around in my brain since I suffered the unfortunate event of watching it Friday night. "I'm not the one still hiding behind a mask." "No. You're hiding in plain sight." And it got me thinking.

Most of the time, I am a what-you-see-is-what-you-get kind of gal. But other times, I wear one - a mask. I know I do. And it comes out in various ways, and in different forms. Like, my painted toe nails. I do not care about my toe nails anymore. If they are painted then it's because I want them painted, so yay, and if not, who cares? But I went to a gathering on Saturday and felt like I had to paint my toenails just in case I took my socks off. Before having kids, I had time to worry about my toe nails and care about that kind of thing. And I guess that's normal. But it's also normal to NOT worry about that kind of thing after having kids. Now I worry about more important things in my life. And I don't have the time or energy to care about my feet, or whether or not my hair is styled in something other than a pony tail, or if I have on make up, or the type of clothing I wear. That's the real me. But sometimes I put on the mask that says, "I care about my appearance, and that's important to me." And it's really not. I do care about how my husband looks and how my kids are put together because they are the most important things in the world to me. It's my job and privilege to take care of them, and I take pride in that. And I do enjoy getting dressed up and made up when I want to, not because I feel like it's a requirement to fit in.

I am at an age now, where I really shouldn't care what other people think of me. I know what's important to me and to my family. My husband and kids are my number one priority in this world. And I DON'T CARE if someone has a problem with this. I no longer have the luxury to put myself first or to think only of me. I live in the deep end of the pool now. I am abundantly blessed in life. I get to play every...single...day with my kids. I get to watch my husband play with our kids every...single...day. I love my life, and I love where we are in life, and I love hanging out with our friends and family who understand this, our friends and family who understand ME. So, buh-bye masks. I'm glad that I've grown enough and matured enough to be comfortable with who I am. I think Dr. Seuss said it best - "Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind."

Thrifty Thursday #9

2010-01-28T06:43:00.015-05:00

Coupons. Oh wonderful money saving coupons. I love you...

Coupon Geek, Frugal Racing Fan Mommy , Coupon Clippin' Mommy , The Coupon Scoop, A Thrifty Mom , Stockpiling Moms showed me that I could sign up for a Betty Crocker $10 coupon booklet that will be mailed to me within 6-8 weeks.

Coupon Geek, Moms by Heart also showed me that Wal-Mart is offering $17 worth of savings in a ConAgra coupon book that will also be mailed to me within 6-8 weeks. I love coupons, so THANK YOU Coupon Geek.

Now, I'm done with the having babies part of my life, but I have family members who have new babies and who are currently expecting new babies. And maybe some other readers could also find this useful. I found on A Thrifty Mom, an excellent link to sign up for FREE baby stuff and money-saving coupons for diapers, magazines, and formula.

I am excited that my Kroger is having its Mega-Sale event this week. Buy 10 participating sale items and get $5 off at check out. I'm so glad that CincySavers has the coupon match ups done so I can save the most money possible for my family. Other sites also did match ups, but I saw it at CincySavers first.

Oooh. My hubby loves Toaster Strudles, and Nickles-n-Dimes just showed me where to get $1 off 1 box. That's awesome. This makes for 2 possibly FREE boxes. Yay! And guess what happens to be in the Mega-Sale???

And according to Facebook, I will be getting a coupon for FREE oreos. I became a fan of Oreo and stalked their page until the contest opened at 3pm on Monday. I got mine! Did you get yours?

Now, I am a sucker for making my kids' birthdays all they can be, so I ordered WC's invites and such from Birthday Express. I didn't want to order, but I looked at Target and Party City with no luck for his construction theme. But Birthday Express was so nice to me. I ordered online, and applied a coupon code for 10% off. I also entered a code for free shipping on orders over $25. Of course I noticed after checkout that the free shipping didn't come off. So I called them and learned I could not double up the coupons. However, they are crediting my card the $5.95 for shipping this time. Isn't that nice??

I have signed up to get free bags before, and so far, I haven't received any yet. Hopefully this deal found by Freebies4Mom and Nickels-n-Dimes will come through. Thanks!

Now I know my FREE sample of Playtex Gentle Glide really isn't saving me all that much money. But I do know that I need "supplies" every month and every penny counts!
Thanks to CouponingFor4 for showing that deal to me!

But the best thing I did by far, I found through A Thrifty Mom. I donated 16 pounds of food to Americans with help from Oscar Mayer Good Mood Mission. And all it cost me was about two minutes of my time. That's it.

AND - I have just been notified that I am the WINNER of a giveaway hosted by CouponingFor4 for Dinners In the Freezer cookbook. I am so looking forward to freezing more meals for my family, to not only save money, but to save me some time, too! Thank you!!

So that's how I've been thrifty this week. What have you been doing??

PS-I received my FREE pair of Lee Jeans that I won this week! I love how they make my booty look! Bonus!

Wednesday's Wishes #6

2010-01-27T06:13:00.003-05:00

We all know how addicted to coffee I am, and how much I jut love drinking that stuff. Well what better giveaway to enter than one for a $25 gift card to Starbucks? It's like it's calling out to me! So, I wish to win this giveaway offered by A Day In The Life.

Be Your Best Mom is hosting a giveaway for some great natural products by Three Sisters Herbals. These items would make for a wonderful relaxation gift to either myself, because I deserve it, or to some one else. I hope I win!

Post It Note Tuesday #2

2010-01-26T07:03:00.002-05:00

Post It Notes provided by Supah Mommy

The Godzilla Within

2010-01-25T10:30:00.000-05:00

My son is less than a month away from being 2 years old. However, his "terribleness" has been going on for what seems like years. He has the cutest face and sweetest smile, neither that will ever be seen on my blog for personal reasons, so you'll just have to take my word for it.
But everywhere he goes, chairs call out in fright...

bathrooms and rolls of toilet paper quiver....

laptops cry out warnings....

toy bins scream in agonizing pain...
clothes (and unfortunately sometimes diapers) peel themselves off of his body to get away...
and toys group together praying they have the same camouflage techniques zebras have.

And even though there are always signs of destruction in his path, I feel so lucky and blessed to have him in my life. After all, he's teaching me patience (an answer to my prayers, I'm sure), making my fingers stronger since I have to press as hard as I possibly can to get the "a" button on the laptop to work, helping me shed unwanted calories by having to always pick up toys and chairs, and showing me how to NOT sweat the small stuff. Thanks, WC. Mommy loves you.

Friday's Funny Phrases #6

2010-01-22T06:33:00.002-05:00

After banging her toe on the chair, "Mommy. I hurt my pinkalicious toe." I guess she LOVES that book!

"Daddy, let's play hide-and-seek. You can hide anywhere you want. You can hide upstairs or in the piano room." - AZ

Thrifty Thursday #8

2010-01-21T06:12:00.026-05:00

With my latest Kroger shopping experience, I saved 34%. Yay! I took the total from $172.16 down to $112.69. That's a savings of $59.47 this week. I got a FREE 1/2 gallon of chocolate milk and a FREE Gatorade. Felt good!

In the massive redecorating project of my bedroom, that's still in progress, I had to stop by Michael's and pick up a few picture frames and some mats. Using two coupons, I was able to save enough money that equaled one FREE 5x7 frame and two FREE mats. I love saving money!

Hopefully I can make it out to Target this week, too, because I've learned from Moms by Heart, Couponing for 4, and Luvin' Great Deals that I can get a FREE Nivea body wash using the $1 Target store coupon and the $2 coupon from the 1/3 Red Plum (as well as the ad for Big Lots from this week).

And while I'm at Target, thanks to Moms by Heart, Couponing for 4 and Nickels-n-Dimes, I can get some ALL detergent for just $.50 thanks to Big Lots ad, Target's price matching, and the $2 off coupon from the 1/3 Red Plum insert.

Another find for Target is from Moms by Heart and Coupon Geek for Huggies Pure and Natural Diapers. Now, I am not a Huggies fan, but how can I resist $5.50 savings on a pack of diapers? Short answer: I can't.

With the redecorating project still going on in my bedroom, I've learned that I need a few more black and white pictures for some of my frames. It's a good thing I learned from Moms by Heart and Coupon Geek all about the 50 FREE prints I can get from CVS. Yahooo!

Now this one is my absolute favorite - thanks to Frugal Mom Knows Best, I won Thomas Splish, Splash, Splosh DVD. WC is going to LOVE this when he opens it for his soon-to-be birthday, and I love that it was free to me! Thank you so much Frugal Mom Knows Best!

And what else goes along with birthdays? Decorations, of course. I'm so glad that The Coupon Scoop,Luscious Deals, and A Thrifty Mom each showed me a $10 off $30 purchase for Party City. Looks like I'll be headed there for invites and such for WC's 2nd birthday party. And if I have money to spare, I'll grab a few items for AZ's 4th birthday party, too.

My Inner Party Planning Goddess

2010-01-20T07:34:00.001-05:00

The party planner within has taken over! I've been thinking about WC's upcoming 2nd birthday for a while now, and I think I've finally settled on his theme. I REALLY wish now that I wouldn't have made his theme last year trains because right now he's LOVIN' him some Thomas the Tank Engine. It turned out so cute, though, right?

So instead, I guess we're going with a construction theme this year. He equally adores his Tonka dump truck. He plays with this thing for what seems like hours. In fact, he and AZ will take turns riding in it and pushing one another. So, I think he'll like this theme. Here's my inspiration for his birthday cake and decorations this year.

.

I am sure he's going to love it.

The next party I'm planning for is my sister's baby shower! And she's having a boy! After seeing cupcake towers and inspiration from Imperfectly Beautiful, a blog I highly recommend you follow by the way, I've been so excited about making one for the baby shower.
I love the ribbons around the boxes on this one...

and the colors in this one....

And why stop there? Something like this would be soooo cute for AZ's 4th birthday. I'm definitely thinking she'll have the Pinkalicious theme.

This is all going to be so much fun!

Post It Note Tuesday #1

2010-01-19T10:31:00.007-05:00

Post It Notes provided by Supah Mommy

My New Drawers of Happiness

2010-01-15T08:57:00.003-05:00

Now if you read my post from a couple of days ago about how my junk drawer has turned into my drawer of happiness, then you may be thinking that I've been doing some more organizing. Nope. These drawers of happiness are all thanks to Victoria's Secret. I had not bought pretty undies for myself in such a long time. I have been wearing old, and I mean OLD, Hanes Her Way undies for the last 10 or more years. Well I happened to walk by Victoria's Secret and saw that their semi-annual sale was going on. And now I love my undies, my lacy trimmed cheeky undies. These are my new drawers of happiness. And I haven't heard any complaints from my hubby, either.

Friday's Funny Phrases #5

2010-01-15T06:49:00.004-05:00

While cleaning my house, I told AZ that I needed to go fold her clothes and put them away. She says, "Mommy, I'll help you clean your toes."

This is not a phrase, but I've learned that WC knows how to imitate squirrels. I had some Dove dark chocolate on the desk, forgot about them, got up, and walked away. He ran over to the chair, climbed up, and started eating those chocolates, foil wrapper and all.

My Drawer of Happiness

2010-01-14T09:51:00.004-05:00

In my kitchen, just to the right of the fridge, is a drawer that taunts me. It's what I call "the junk drawer," and it drives me crazy. Every time I need to get the scissors or whatever else there is that doesn't really have a place, I have to spend 5 minutes digging through this drawer. Well this past weekend, I'd finally had enough.

I randomly saw part of an episode of Rachel Ray some time last week, and she was talking about how to organize a jewelry drawer with boxes. Now, I don't have a jewelry drawer, but I adapted this idea for my junk drawer. I cut open easy mac boxes, girl scout cookie boxes, oatmeal boxes, and other types of boxes so that the entire drawer space was used. Then I put all the pens in a box, scissors and paperclips and chip clips in a box, my husband's "stuff" in a box, etc., etc., etc.

Now when I need thumbtacks or a pen or my scissors, I can open the drawer and just pull whatever it is right out. My junk drawer has transformed into a drawer of happiness. I find this drawer peaceful and full of contentment. It makes me smile.

I wanted to post a picture of my lovely drawer, but I cannot find the battery charger for my camera, and therefore cannot get the pictures off of my camera. And my camera is full, so I cannot even take a picture of my organizational skills. Looks like I'll need to keep on organizing in order to find that charger.

What do SAHMs do all day?

2010-01-10T20:23:00.006-05:00

Thanks to my mom's group, I came across this article from the Washington Post. If you are a SAHM or WAHM and you have friends who do NOT have kids, I highly suggest reading this. It took all of my will power not to forward this on to some of my girlfriends, but I feel good knowing I can post it on here. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Washington Post article on SAHMs

One Day I Hope You Have a Kid JUST LIKE YOU

2010-01-09T11:02:00.001-05:00

One day I hope you have a kid JUST...LIKE...YOU. Now I don't recall ever actually hearing those words, but I'll bet my bank account (as small as it is) that both of my parents thought this at least once when I was a child. And I know for a fact that my MIL thought those words about my husband, especially since she's told me many stories about his ornery childhood days. Well, I cannot believe I am going to say this about my almost two year old, but ONE DAY I HOPE WC HAS A BOY JUST LIKE HIM!

WC is so special to me, as is AZ and all kids to their parents. But I tell you what -there are days when I'll text JD at work and tell him that his son is going to be put up for adoption by the end of the day. **KIDDING** WC now requires that our kitchen drawers and closet doors become childproofed. He's almost two years old for crying out loud. Shouldn't we be past this stage? Nope. It seems he's only getting harder and harder. Just the other day we had to remove all of the VHS tapes and DVDs from the entertainment center so that he'd leave them alone. Of course I also had to take out the actual shelves, too, because then he played with those. And then I had to remove the pegs the shelves were sitting on because he tried taking those out and ended up putting one in his mouth. So now at least when he opens the bi-fold closet doors he loves oh so much to play with, tapes and DVDs are going to fall out on top of him. Then maybe he'll run away and not pinch his little fingers off in the actual doors.

But then, I look at him and AZ sitting there on their pillows (to keep them from eating the television) watching Veggie Tales, and I think, I hope they have kids just like them. They are the sweetest, most beautiful, warm-hearted, sensitive, loving little kids on the planet with the most explosive, unique personalities any mother could wish for. I love them.

Friday's Funny Phrases #4

2010-01-08T07:08:00.008-05:00

So my husband helps AZ go to the potty the other night. Nothing unusual about that scenario. What is unusual, is that he actually came up to me and said Honey I have something you can put in your funny phrase Friday on your blog. What!? I'm thrilled that, #1 he's reading my blog, #2 he's helping me contribute content to my blog, and #3 he's the best husband on the planet! He helped AZ go poop on the potty! So this is the story he tells me:

AZ was trying to poop, and pushing really hard. She was having a tough time with this one. She looks up at him and says, "Daddy, you do it for me." He told her he couldn't, and she wanted to know why. He explained that it was inside her body. So, she asked him to pull it out.

I know. It's gross. But to me it's sweet at the same time. I can imagine her looking up with her big blue/grey eyes and asking for help. Imagine Puss in Boots from Shrek. Those big eyes.

On Tuesday of this week, AZ was up from her nap (which was really just quiet time in her room because she never sleeps anymore. Not.Ever.) and she got a clementine orange, two actually, for snack. I peeled them and put them in a bowl for her. She likes to break the pieces apart herself. The next thing I know, she's put a slice of orange in between her two big toes of her right foot. She looks right at me and says, "Mommy, I'm eating it with my monkey toes." And she continued to eat the entire rest of her oranges this way. As well as the oranges she had with dinner. And WC got in on this action too. Only he took a half chewed orange OUT of his mouth, put it in between his toes, and said, "Mommy toes."

WC was playing in the toy bin container. You know. The container that's supposed to help keep my family room organized with all the toys inside of it? WC dumps all the toys out so he can play with the container. Stinker. Anyway, he's playing in the empty container, and it begins to fall over. Mid-fall he yells, "Timber!"

Thrifty Thursday #7

2010-01-07T06:53:00.011-05:00

Last week while grocery shopping, Wholly Guacamole was marked down to 10/$10. Since they didn't have any, I got a rain check. Guess what I found when I opened my Sunday paper coupons today? A coupon for $1 off Wholly Guacamole. And since I have 2 papers, I'll certainly get 2 FREE packs of Wholly Guacamole. Yum.

One of my resolutions is to save at least 30% on each grocery bill this year. Last week, my savings was 28%. I didn't hit my 30% mark, but that's not too bad, especially since I forgot to print out all the newly stocked coupons. I'm pretty sure I would have hit 30%, had I remembered those online coupons. Maybe next time. But I did get a FREE Pediasure and a FREE Kikkoman soy sauce. That's good, right?

A penny saved is a penny earned, and a penny earned is a penny earned! You Data helps me collect a few cents every week or so. So far this week I have collected $.20 to be directly deposited into my paypal account. It's only a few cents, but every bit helps.

I signed up for a free sample of Teekanne tea. I've been trying to cut back on the caffeine lately, and I think it comes decaf. Whew. Thanks Coupon Geek.

I also signed up for a free sample of Ivon Mog Gourmet Apple. I personally chose the walnut-cranberry apple, but they all looked absolutely delish! Thanks go out (in no particular order) to Ms. Frugality , Stockpiling Moms, MoJoSavings, Couponingfor4 for this yummy deal.

Wanted: A Good Mother

2010-01-05T09:15:00.001-05:00

I was thinking today about how being a mom is sometimes really hard. It seriously is the HARDEST job on the planet. So that got me wondering what sort of job description there would be for the title Mom. And here goes...

Job Title: Mom

Requirements: Must be able to survive on limited hours of sleep, and be able to sustain this for at least 18 years.

Must not be grossed out by snot, boogers, pee, poop, vomit, chewed up food, slobber, or other various fluids that may be shot out of your child.

Must learn to be very flexible.

Must be able to eat your pre-baby having words, such as, "I will never let my child survive on milk alone. I will never let my child sleep in my bed. I will never spank my child. I will never laugh when disciplining my child. I will never skip more than 2 nights in a row of bath time. I will never hurry up reading books with my child. I will never let my child sleep with more than 2 stuffed animals."

Must be able to look at a mess in it's face and be the first to blink.

Must be willing to repeat yourself over and over and over again.

Must be able to restrain your child while he/she's getting a shot.

Must have the ability to distinguish if your child is teething, tired, hungry, or sick.

Must be able to wake up and do it all again tomorrow.

Recommendations: Have a loving, caring, understanding, willing-to-help spouse.

Compensations: smiles, giggles, laughter, hugs, kisses, snuggles

No previous experience required.

My 2nd Blog Award

2010-01-04T10:15:00.003-05:00

I cannot believe it! I got another blog award! Yay! I am so excited that people are actually reading my blog. I'm in shock! But so thankful!! I got this award from Misadventures of Mom of 3. Thank you, Misadventures of Mom of 3!

Here are the award's rules:
~Put the Lemonade logo on your blog or within your post.
~Nominate at least 10 blogs with great attitude or gratitude.
~Link to the nominees within your post.
~Let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
~Share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award.

Here are some more blogs who I'd like to share this award with:
10 Feet of Trouble
Bloggin 2 Noggin
Coupon Clippin' Mommy
Moms By Heart
My Cup 2 Yours
Once Upon A Mommy
Random Musings from a (Formerly) Pregnant Chick
She Saved
Simply Married
Stockpiling Moms

Congrats, winners!

Thank Goodness for DVR...

2009-12-31T19:11:00.000-05:00

Myspace Stuff

I hope everyone has a wonderful New Year. My husband and I had plans for people to come over, but unfortunately AZ has a slight fever and one of their kids has a rash. My how kids are so unpredictable. I doubt I make it to see the ball drop this year since AZ was up most of the night last night. We may just watch a movie and record the New Year's Eve shows. Maybe we'll watch those shows Friday or Saturday night and celebrate the New Year with friends then. Thank goodness for DVR.

Have a safe, happy new year. Good-bye 2009. Hello 2010!

My Very 1st BLOG AWARD!!!

2009-12-31T14:36:00.002-05:00

Oh my gosh, I'm as giddy as a school kid when summer break begins! I got a BLOG AWARD! Yay! Thank you so much, Once Upon A Mommy!

I guess there are rules when you get an award. A little like Pay It Forward I guess. So here are the rules:

~Put the Lemonade logo on your blog or within your post.
~Nominate at least 10 blogs with great attitude or gratitude.
~Link the nominees within your post.
~Let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
~Share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award.

Now, drum roll please, here are my winners -
Goodness And Mercy Mom at Goodness And Mercy Shall Follow
Amanda at Imperfectly Beautiful
Samantha at Mama Notes
Heather at Freebies4Mom
A Thrifty Mom at A Thrifty Mom
Christie O. at Baby Tea Leaves
Ruby at Growing up BLACKXICAN
Tammi at My Organized Chaos
Shannon at The Mommy Files
Melinda at The Hippie Mommy with Kaleidoscope Eyes

Thanks again! And congrats to MY winners. Have a great New Year.

Thrifty Thursday #6

2009-12-31T13:50:00.000-05:00

She Saved had a post on how to get a FREE Talla Sales Tiger Plush Toy, so I signed up for that. My kids will love that, as will I. We'll add that to our WHO DEY collection. Yay!

I won that FREE pair of LEE jeans by becoming their fan on facebook. I originally heard of this contest from Freebies4Mom. Thanks, Freebies4Mom!

Striving to be my Best

2009-12-31T13:44:00.000-05:00

I absolutely LOVE Christmas and all that magic and excitement, but I do NOT like the mess that comes with it. The post-holiday-clean-up seems to last as long as the pre-holiday-rush for me. I took all the decorations down yesterday, and stripped the tree of the memorable ornaments that made it so special and beautiful. I've found places for new toys, though I feel I'll need to start putting some away for donation piles. That part gets tricky because of my daycare and the age range, though. I'm feeling the need to regroup, which for me equals dusting, vacuuming, laundry, etc. I feel the need for getting completely back into routine. My routine will be new, though, because I've started watching a 3 month old baby. Yes, I am a little nutty. So, now I have my 3 & 1/2 year old and almost 2 year old, two other almost 2 year olds, and a baby in my care full time. New routines are a must with the new baby here now.

Along with regrouping and regaining a routine, I'd like to start on my goals, and OK I'll say it, resolutions for this upcoming year. I'm going to be brave by putting it all out there, and I'm hoping some of you are as equally brave and help hold me accountable.

Goal/Resolution #1: Lose this baby weight. Do I really have the right to call it baby weight anymore? My youngest baby is almost 2 years old for crying out loud. I'll call it my, I'm-too-lazy-to-work-out-and-lose-the-weight-I-gained-while-I-was-pregnant weight. Now, I gained over 50 pounds with both AZ and WC. I lost everything after AZ was born and before getting pregnant with WC, but it hasn't been as easy losing the last 20 or so pounds after WC. I guess it's true that "your metabolism will slow down when you turn 30." BOO! Therefore, I am on the hunt for a fun way to shed some pounds. I have the treadmill in the playroom now, so hopefully that's at least a starting place. I'm also looking into some fun weight loss challenges that I've come across on some of the blogs I follow. I haven't decided which I like best, but here they are. The first one is The Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans, and you can learn more about that one HERE. The other one I'm considering is called Body After Baby. I found out about that one HERE. I've also considered doing the tapes, yes that's VHS tapes, or DVD work outs I have. I highly doubt I'll try the P90X again, as that is at LEAST an hour everyday. Who has that kind of time?

Goal/Resolution #2: Continue to save money using coupons and sales, and get even better at it. One thing I LOVE about the blogosphere is that soooo many women out there are extremely generous in sharing when they find a deal. Some blogs will actually match up stores sales with coupons, making it extremely easy to find great deals. Thank you to all of those wonderful blogs. The Kroger I shop at actually shows me on the receipt the percentage of my savings. I'm hoping to save above 30% on EVERY shopping trip.

Goal/Resolution #3: Become better acquainted with our finances. So, I'm saving money shopping and finding deals, but where is that money going and what is it doing? I'm going to take over the bills and finances for a while to figure all of this out. Yes, I'm adding another thing to my plate.

Goal/Resolution #4: Send out greeting cards for birthdays and anniversaries to friends and family. What is better than getting a card from a friend or family member on your birthday or anniversary. It's always nice to know that someone out there has remembered a special occasion for you. I used to be pretty good at sending out cards. I made this resolution a couple of years ago, and was pretty good until about April/May. The next year I was even better, getting cards out until around Septemberish. This year I am determined to get cards out from January-December. Wish me luck.

Goal/Resolution #5: Spend more time doing FUN things with the kids. My husband and I were just discussing last night how we'd like to each have one-on-one time with each kid, as well as go out and do fun things as a family. This is going to be a fun goal for us, and I certainly hope we are successful with this one. I hope I'm successful with them all, but this one is really high on the priority list for us.

Goal/Resolution #6: Find some quality "me" time. Seriously, this will be way too much information, but I was just in the bathroom doing my business with both of my children in there. AZ was sitting across from the toilet while WC was on my lap. Yes, my lap! Come on. I need a few minutes to myself, kiddos. The mom's group I am in will definitely continue helping me on this journey.

Goal/Resolution #7: Decide if I want to become a member of our church. I feel that it's such a commitment to the church, and I just want to make sure that I am prepared to contribute and become a member of that community. I REALLY want to get the kids baptized. AZ is 3 & 1/2 and WC is almost 2, and I know that their faith will be in their hands when they get older, but I'd like to do this for me I guess, to participate in the ceremony of dedicating my children to God. I already know they are His, and they're on loan to me, but it's in my heart to do this.

Goal/Resolution #8: Stop sweating the small stuff. Start looking at the BIG picture. So what that WC has pulled out all the VHS tapes from the cabinet and is making a mess right now. So what if my dear husband leaves his dishes on the counter. Is it really that important? My OCD personality says, YES. CLEAN IT UP!! I need to relax.

The perfectionist in me could continue to make goals/resolutions until my fingers cramped up from all the typing, but I am going to stop here. Although I find faults in myself so easily, I know no one is perfect. It doesn't matter that I know this, I will continue to strive for perfection. I want to be my best, and how will I know what my best is unless I continue to push myself.

What are your goals/resolutions for 2010? I wish you, and myself, luck in accomplishing and achieving all our hearts desires for this upcoming year. Good luck!

Free sample of Enfamil Formula

2009-12-30T09:08:00.006-05:00

This is for readers who happen to have new babies who may or may not want formula(it always has a far off expiration date) or readings who are currently expecting. So, JK and KK. Or maybe for readers who would like to get this for donations. That could be any of you.

I read at A Thrifty Mom that you can sign up by midnight on Dec. 31st to get a free sample of Enfamil Baby Formula. Go HERE to print your certificate.

I figure I will put some of my blogging to good use and tell you about some of the awesome giveaways I find. I'll always link you back to the original blog I've found the deal on, and you should check them out.

Wednesday's Weekly Wishes #5

2009-12-30T08:06:00.001-05:00

Over at Coupon Clippin' Mommy, I've entered a giveaway for 100 Postcards from Uprinting. I wish to win these, but they wouldn't be for me. I'd use them as invitations to something special, like JK's baby shower. ;)

Another wish this week is for me to win another giveaway. This one is at Frugal Mom Knows Best. We all know how much WC LOVES him some Thomas the Train. Well this give away is for Thomas and Friends Splish Splash Splosh DVD! How perfect is that?

As always, I wish for more sleep. AZ was up a few times last night. And of course WC was up and ready to go at 6:30 this morning.

The Calm Before the Storm

2009-12-27T08:44:00.001-05:00

Calm...that's what I think our Christmases are right now. Christmas 2008 wasn't a flurry of excitement for AZ or WC because she was just 2 & 1/2 and he was only 10 months old. I was certainly hoping for more excitement for Christmas 2009. Here's what we got:

Christmas morning AZ wakes up and comes into our room. There's definitely nothing unusual there. After she's done going potty, I say to her, "Who came to our house last night?" Her response was, "Uma and Papa." Me: "Who else came to our house?" Her: "Uncle C, Aunt K, DG, and AL." I'm guessing we need to talk Santa up a little bit more next year.

After WC woke up, we all headed downstairs. There were no squeals of excitement from the kids. I think I was more excited for them to see Santa's gifts than they were. And of course, after they saw the awesome tool bench and tools, they didn't want to open anything else. I felt like it was a chore to get them to open presents this year. Of course they LOVE everything they got, and they are so darn cute playing with one another, but the magical excitement and happy squeals didn't happen this year.

And if the last couple of Christmases are the calm, bring on the storm. I'm ready!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

2009-12-25T13:49:00.001-05:00

Free Graphics - MySpace/Xanga/Friendster

Friday's Funny Phrases #3

2009-12-25T11:45:00.004-05:00

While at a holiday gathering, AZ ran into an early twenties guy who was wearing VERY ripped up jeans with long johns underneath, which is obviously a fashion statement that shows just how old I am because I don't get it. Anyway, she looks up at him and says, "Your pants are broken. You need to fix them."

On the drive home from said holiday gathering, AZ gets the sniffles. Snif. "Boogers, leave me alone." Snif, Snif. "Boogers, leave me alone." Snif, Snif. "Boogers, LEAVE ME ALONE." Snif. "Mommy, my boogers won't leave me alone."

At dinner, I was desperately trying to get AZ to actually eat something other than macaroni and cheese. She had mashed potatoes, that I know she likes, along with mashed potatoes, lima beans (yeah right), 1/8 of a cereal bar, and a slice of cheese. Begging her to try a bite of mashed potatoes because I KNOW SHE LIKES THEM, she looks at me and says, "Mommy there's a baby coming out of my belly. Look. The feet are touching." What? "I'm going to touch it in my belly button." Hee, hee, hee, hee. My silly girl.

Alright, so it's not a saying, but I thought it was funny - I heard WC rummaging in a kitchen drawer. The next thing I know, he's run out into the family room yielding a chop stick like he's Harry Potter. He must be my little wizard!
MERRY CHRISTMAS, everyone!

Thrifty Thursday #5

2009-12-24T06:08:00.000-05:00

I LOVE guacamole! I could seriously put it on anything. So, I was thrilled when Frugal Racing Fan Mommy posted about a BOGO Wholly Guacamole. Yay! Combine that coupon, found HERE with the $1.00 off coupons from Sunday inserts, and I'm set! They're normally 2/$5 at my Kroger without coupons or sales, so at the very most, I'll pay $1.50 for two on my next trip. LOVE it! Thank you Frugal Racing Fan Mommy! Edit - They're on sale at Kroger for $1! I'm getting 4 for FREE!!

CVS has a great deal for me this week. I can score some Nivea Body wash for free, or make money on it! They will cost $5.99, but I'll get $5 cash back with register rewards, AND I have a $2.00 off coupon found HERE. I found this deal through Couponing For 4.

We all know how much I LOVE my coffee, and of course I need coffee creamer to go with it. I've heard from multiple bloggers, and signed up to get another FREE pint of International Delight Coffee creamer by registering on their facebook page. Thanks to Coupon Clippin' Mommy, Couponing for 4, Frugal Racing Fan Mommy, Freebies4Mom, A Thrifty Mom and MomsbyHeart.

Wednesday's Weekly Wishes #4

2009-12-23T10:05:00.007-05:00

I wish kids were born sleeping through the night.

I wish to leave the world a better place for my children.

I wish for a mini-van, and a maid, and a good nights sleep, or two.

I wish for everyone to be kind, generous, and thoughtful of others this holiday season and ALWAYS.

I wish for hearts of those far from family to be comforted, mine included. I wish for all stomachs to be satisfied, all bodies to be warm with shelter, and all hearts to be filled with love.

I wish for a White Christmas.

I wish to find the beauty in everything.

I wish to stop and savor every second of every moment with my precious children and husband.

I wish to be the absolute best that I can be for my kids, husband, family, friends, and myself.

I wish for peace, in our hearts, in our lives, in our homes, in our world.

I wish for less tears of sorrow and pain, and more of joy.

I wish everyone felt the love and grace of God in their hearts.

I wish for everyone to have a WONDERFUL Christmas, enjoyed with family and friends, and with everyone happy and in good health.

My Husband is my Hero

2009-12-22T06:15:00.004-05:00

How pleasantly surprised was I when JD took over some of my to do list?! He made dinner and 3 meals to be frozen. Wow! What a big help! Make Meals to Freeze: CHECK!

He FINISHED his Christmas shopping, though I'm the only one on his list. He wrapped his gifts for me and helped with my huge pile, too. So now all the gifts are wrapped. Yay! Wrap the Presents: CHECK!

All of us sat around the table last night icing the Christmas cookies. AZ's cookies are so funny. They have a glob of icing somewhere in the middle of the cookie, with a mound of sprinkles on top of that. WC didn't ice one cookie, as he kept eating them as soon as one hit his plate. Decorate Cookies: CHECK!

I just may have time to finish cross-stitching my Christmas stocking after all.

My hubby is the BEST! And to top it all off, he did it BEFORE he read about how stressed I was.

Mommy's Merry Madness and the Crazy that comes with Christmas

2009-12-21T06:06:00.007-05:00

With only four days until Christmas, I feel my inner Grinch coming out. My to do list is ever-growing, and while I slowly mark one item off, two more items seem to appear. And I don't really feel like I could not do some of these things since I think they're all important.

I've got another baby to look after in my daycare, bringing my total to a 3 & 1/2 year old, three 1 year olds, and a 3 month old. I think I may be going mad. I had to bring out ALL of my old baby things, wash them, set them up, and try to train my kids to stay away from them. I may hurt WC in this process, as he is as stubborn as I am, and he REALLY wants to touch everything. At this very moment, he's swinging the baby swing, saying "Baby KT, Baby KT." OK. He wins.

My kitchen is going to be my permanent place of residence for the next day or so as well. It seems that we've depleted the stock of frozen meals I've prepared, so I have a TON of meat in my fridge waiting to magically be cooked into meals and frozen. At least I will have 4-5 more entrees to add to my freezer. I've also baked FROM SCRATCH 3-4 dozen cookies that are waiting to be decorated with the icing, also made FROM SCRATCH. I don't really have Christmas memories of cookies being made and decorated, but my husband does. I think those are times he treasures and holds dear. I hope our kids will have the same fond memories of cookies. I know AZ really liked getting her hands in the flour and using the cookie cutters to make the cookies. I hope I'm making good memories for her.

And I did finally get all of the Christmas packages together and mailed over the weekend. I also got the Christmas letter written and copied, Christmas cards done, envelopes stuffed, and all mailed out, all 75 of them. Whew! Now I have a mountain of gifts to wrap. I actually do enjoy wrapping and making packages pretty for the recipient, but the looming deadline is quickly approaching.

The Christmas stocking I am cross-stitching for myself just may NOT be done in time for this Christmas. I've made one for everyone else in my family throughout the years, so I'd like one to match, but it seems that I just may not have time to finish it.

I hate that I feel so much stress right now about Christmas because I LOVE giving gifts to friends and family. I LOVE seeing my kids excited about Santa and snow and toys and lights and the tree and everything that has to do with Christmas. I LOVE that they think Christmas cookies and candy canes are so yummy. I'm REALLY looking forward to them seeing the candle light service at church. I'm REALLY looking forward to their amazement that the magic of Santa brings. I'm REALLY looking forward to spending time with my in-laws and sharing a wonderful Christmas Eve dinner with everyone. And I'm REALLY looking forward to having our annual Surf and Turf dinner with my husband on Christmas night.

Christmas is a magical time, especially for kids. I WILL pull out some magic of my own and get all of these things done, and more! And, dag-gone-it, I'm going to do it and be Merry about it. Good-bye Grinch. And MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Friday's Funny Phrases #2

2009-12-18T09:10:00.005-05:00

While in the car listening to Christmas tunes, AZ says, "Mommy I like this Tinkerbell music."

On my way to change WC's poopy diaper, I say to him, "WC, Did you poop? You're stinky." AZ replies, "I think he ate his boogers." She's so stuck on boogers making poop. It's funny.

Snuggling with AZ, I had to get up and make dinner. AZ says, "I need another mommy to snuggle with."

WC is in a new phase where he likes to look at me and say, "Bye-bye." I'll walk into his room when he wakes in the morning. Here's a typical morning conversation with him.
Me: "Hi Buddy. Ready to get up?"
He'll look at me and ask, "Daddy home?"
Me: "No. Daddy's at work."
Him: "Bye-bye."

When WC was done eating dinner:
Me: "Are you all done? Do you want to get down?"
Him: "Bye-bye."
Me: "Are you done, WC? Do you want to get down?"
Him: "Bye-bye."
Me: "Stop saying bye-bye."
Him: "Hi."
My almost 2 year old definitely has a sense of humor.

AZ told me last night that she touched JJ the Elf. Now, JJ will lose his magic if you touch him. I told her that if he loses his magic, he will not be able to go see Santa. She says, "But I will miss him." How sweet!

Thrifty Thursday #4

2009-12-17T09:28:00.000-05:00

Freebies4Mom always comes through for me with GREAT coupons. I got a coupon for $.50 off Driscoll's berries. Kroger will double that to $1.00 off, so this is great! AZ and WC LOVE Driscoll's more than any other brand berry out there.

I haven't done a whole lot of shopping lately...

Wednesday's WEEKLY Wishes #3

2009-12-16T08:14:00.003-05:00

I've updated the title, as I may add more wishes to this post as the week progresses.

I wish to get A LOT done this week to get ready for Christmas.
TO DO: wrap gifts, finish shopping, mail out of towners' gifts, write Christmas letter, stuff and mail out Christmas cards, buy stamps for Christmas cards, get groceries for Christmas dinner menu and for Christmas cookies, CLEAN MY FILTHY HOUSE, make Christmas cookies with AZ and WC, and I'm sure much much more.

I've entered a giveaway at The Bragging Mommy for a Harmony Juvenile LiteRider Youth Booster Car Seat. This could be perfect timing as AZ just hit the 30lb mark. You can read more about the booster seat HERE. So, I'm wishing to win this giveaway.

After looking at Nickels-n-Dimes, I've entered another giveaway, sponsored by Sage and Savvy It is for a DVD of The Biggest Loser Last Chance Workout. I'd love to win this giveaway so that I could either lose a few pounds, or give it to an unnamed relative who LOVES the show.

The ULTIMATE Parents

2009-12-15T08:38:00.000-05:00

I came to the realization shortly after AZ was born (3 & 1/2 years ago) that God was the ultimate parent. I mean, I always knew God was wonderful and knew He gave his only son for us, but when I became a parent, I felt that I had a lot more understanding of what God sacrificed for us. He let his child DIE so that we could be washed of our sins. I have cried countless tears over this fact.

Listening to Sunday's sermon, I was reminded that Jesus also had a MOTHER. Why had I never thought of her loss? She watched her child be tortured and killed right before her eyes. What a strong and faithful mother Mary must have been!

I often wonder if I'll know when to let go of my children, as Mary had faith and knew when to let go of Jesus. When will I know it's OK for my kids to make their own decisions, even knowing that they'll get hurt from them? Mary was in an exceptional position. She birthed Christ!

My hopes are that I can be the type of parent that God wants me to be for my children. I want to do my job for Him, so that my children may grow up to do what they're supposed to do for Him.

Faith is tested on a regular basis, but I pray that I am able to be just half as faithful as Mary was. I know my flaws, and I cannot say for certain that I am even remotely faithful enough to watch my children be sacrificed. I pray my faith is never tested in that way.

From Sunday's service on, I will forever remember what God AND Mary did for Jesus. I'm so grateful that Mary was strong in her faith to God. And forever thankful to God for all He has done for us.

My Children, My Family, and God's Wonderful Work

2009-12-14T09:12:00.012-05:00

I have two children. AZ is almost 3 & 1/2 and WC is almost 2. So why is it that there are some days when I look at them as if they are little aliens that have invaded my life and home? You'd think that I'd be completely used to the idea that I have two children, but I swear there are some days when I am still SHOCKED that I am a parent! I cannot believe that I am this lucky.

My kids are their own little people, with their own personalities and distinct traits. But you know what? I am blown away, sometimes, at how my children remind me of my childhood or some of my siblings.

For example, AZ likes to run on her tippy toes. And why can't I just say tip toes? It's always TIPPY toes. Anyway, it always reminds of my sister JK. As does AZ's laugh. Her laugh warms my heart, not only because the sound of laughter coming from a child is priceless, but because it makes me think of my aunt KK, sister JK, and I laughing with one another. I'm so happy she has our Woody Woodpecker laugh.

Sometimes WC will try to take off all of his clothes and run around naked because he sees his big sister do it. And I totally let them run around naked, laughing their heads off, because it brings back memories of my sister again. (She's going to kill me for publishing these memories, but they are precious to me.)

And whoa is me because WC definitely reminds me of my brother JAD. Some of his facial expressions are DEAD on. I remember when my brother would get into these giggle fits. His laughter filled the entire house, and it was so contagious. It makes me smile remembering him like that. He was a little on the dramatic side. Even if he was getting ready to lay over our Daddy's knee, he'd comically roll his eyes and entire head on his way. WC rolls his eyes and head like that.

I am truly in awe of God's work. He gave me the two most beautiful and wonderful children who fit perfectly into my puzzle called life. He has blessed me, and He continues to amaze me.

Friday's Funny Phrases #1

2009-12-11T09:31:00.004-05:00

Kids say the darnedest things, right? Well mine does, or at least AZ does. So, I thought it'd be a fun thing to write about what my kids say sometimes.

This one's not so funny, but it definitely shows AZ's growing up. After me not letting her do something she shouldn't do: I need a new Mommy. You're not being nice. That one actually hurt some. Am I going to be in trouble when she's a teenager? I think so!

I was cooking dinner last night and AZ started dancing. I'm a booty shaker, Mommy. Really? Where is she hearing these things?

Water makes pee, and boogers make poop. Can you tell AZ eats her boogers still? It's so gross, but I guess she has the general idea.

These are only a few things I remember her saying this week that stuck with me. I'm hoping I'll get better about writing all these things down and putting them out there for family and friends to see and laugh about. If you have kids, what's the funniest thing they've said lately?

JJ the Elf Used All His Magic and Saved My Night

2009-12-10T11:48:00.007-05:00

Who is JJ the Elf, you ask? Right now, seeing as I feel well rested, he's my HERO! JJ the Elf is our Elf On The Shelf. He's named JJ because my nephew has an elf named Jack. Well, AZ figured ALL elves were named Jack. I didn't want an elf named Jack, though, because of my babysitting, so he's Jack Junior, or JJ. We've adopted him from Santa, and every night he uses his magic to fly back to the North Pole to report to Santa how AZ and WC behaved for the day. Will they be on the naughty or nice list for the day? He waits for all of us to sleep to use his magic and then returns here, always hiding in a different spot. AZ is excited to find him every morning.

Well, twice now he's come back to hide in her room. However, he'll only hide in her room if she goes to sleep that night without any fussing or crying. And, if she wakes up in the middle of the night to go potty, she has to go back to her room, and not come into Mommy and Daddy's room. Afterall, she has to keep him company.

Ladies and gents, this has worked now BOTH times he's hidden in her room. HALE-FREAKIN-LUJAH! He can hide in her room every night from now until Christmas if I can get some sleep. Hopefully he'll continue using his magic especially for me. *sigh* I'm going to miss JJ when he leaves.

Thrifty Thursday #3

2009-12-10T08:43:00.001-05:00

With the amount of soy sauce I use for marinades, I am very thankful to The Coupon Scoop and Freebies4Mom for posting a good deal on Kikkoman. I'll be saving $1 on two bottles of soy sauce, and getting 2 completely FREE bottles.

Also, thanks to Freebies4Mom,Coupon Scoop, and Coupon Geek for me winning $10 from Victoria's Secret. I was so happy I won, too, 'cuz Mama needs a new bra and some new undies. Sorry folks, but it's true. I had to join Pink Nation, and since I am a new member, I also got to print a coupon for a FREE solid tank with any pink purchase. Woo hoo!

I also got two completely FREE lunchables last week, as well as 2 completely FREE pints of coffee creamer. I got the International Delight coffee creamers free by becoming their fan on FB. Yay Facebook! So far I've tried caramel macchiato, and it's good. I'll try the white chocolate mocha flavor next. I found the $1 off lunchable coupons online and Kroger had them 10/$10. That equaled two free ones, friends!

That's how I've been thrifty this week.

Wednesday's Wishes #2: I keep adding wishes. The title should be THIS WEEKS Wishes!

2009-12-09T09:23:00.015-05:00

This week's wish is for a couple of different things. First off, and probably the most important, I wish for uninterrupted SLEEP. For some reason, and I have never had this really happen to me before, I could not fall asleep on Monday night. Is that what insomnia is? I tossed and turned until after 2am. Then of course AZ was up for an hour between 4:30am-5:30am. I finally had JD get up and help her the last time around 6:15am. Why is it that my 3 & 1/2 year old is unable to sleep through the night, while WC, who's almost 2, seems to have no issues with sleep? I think he must have my sleeping genes, and AZ must have her daddy's. And last night AZ wandered into our room no less than 3 times, with me having to get up and take her back to her room every...single...time. So, my biggest desire at the moment, hands down, is sleep - like, bear hibernating for the winter, uninterrupted, deep, fulfilling, restful, sleep.

On to my next wish for the day - I'd LOVE LOVE LOVE to have my body back. I know that I can't really complain too much since I haven't done a whole lot to get my pre-baby body back, but it'd be nice to wear all of those clothes that are just hanging in my closet, literally collecting dust. *sigh* After AZ was born, I was able to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight without trying too hard. Unfortunately, even though the weight (all 55lbs) was gone, my body was not MY body from before. Then I had WC, and I still have about 10 lbs(from the 50lbs) to lose. Did I mention he's almost 2 years old? I tried doing the P90X program for a while to get back into shape and build some muscle tone, but that lasted all of about 2 weeks. That work out was HARD, and loooooong. So, I'm really hoping to win this contest for the EA SPORTS Active More Workout game for Wii from the blog My Organized Chaos.

I also entered a give away for some books at Coupon Geek that I'd love to win for AZ and WC. They always love new books!

The Mommy-Files is also hosting a giveaway for a Curious George ChristmasCD. We have watched the Curious George Christmas movie that came on PBS already 2-3 times. I would love to add the CD to our collection!

And another giveaway I've entered is from Couponing For 4. I'd love to win a Norpro Nonstick Cake-Sicle Pan. How much fun would AZ and WC have eating cake on a stick?! And now I could have cake on a stick? EVERYTHING TASTES BETTER ON A STICK! Think about it.There's meat on a stick, hotdogs on a stick, lollipops, popsicles, cotton candy, and now cake! This is so much fun!

And saving the best for last - I wish and pray that my Aunt KK has a smooth labor with no complications either tonight or tomorrow. I am THRILLED to be getting a niece/cousin!!

And those are my Wednesday's wishes. Actually, this week's wishes!

Mommy's Madness...Loving the Holidays and all the Madness they Bring!

2009-12-03T11:40:00.003-05:00

This time of year, from right around Thanksgiving through the New Year, is a whirlwind of chaos for just about every woman out there. It's definitely that way for me this year.

Thanksgiving was something special this year for me, as I cooked my first ever turkey with stuffing and a chocolate pecan pie. And that's pronounced pee'can. Now I don't know how all those other women out there handle making those turkeys every year. EW! I was so not a fan of giving that dead turkey carcass a bath! It's hard enough giving my kids a bath sometimes, and I birthed them. But seriously...I had to BATHE the turkey. Gross. After I got over the astonishing fact that I was going to have to then put my hand inside that turkey's body and remove things, everything was smooth sailing. I was very fortunate to have my sister-in-law and mother-in-law make all the side dishes, so no one was stuck in the kitchen all day. How fabulous was that! And all the food was delicious!

Another first for me this year was experiencing Black Friday. All I can say is, "HOLY MOLY!" That was insane, like Mardi Gras insane, but with a much better outcome full of great deals. Now that I have run full force into the money-saving world of coupons and blogs, I began my Christmas shopping quite a while ago. I've gotten some really great deals on gifts this year. So, in that aspect, things are great! I think I'm done shopping (mostly) for ALL the kids in my life, and that's quite an accomplishment all in itself. It's these darn adults I'm struggling finding gifts for. No matter, it's the thought that counts, right? And besides gifts, Christmas wouldn't be the same without all the music and decorations.

We put our Christmas tree up on Thanksgiving morning, as we started a new tradition this year for the kids. AZ and WC each got a Hallmark ornament that sort-of represents them this year. AZ got a Mickey Mouse ornament, and WC got a Thomas the Train ornament. I'm hoping that every year, they'll unwrap their new ornaments after Thanksgiving dinner, and those will be the first ones on the tree. As a mom to young kids, I'm excited about the family traditions I get to start with them to make their memories of holidays special. In fact, I know what AZ's memory this year is going to be...lights, or the lack thereof.

A few days ago AZ was playing at her cousins' house, and when I picked her up it was dark out. She was fascinated by all the Christmas lights and decorations everyone had, with "Beautiful!" and "Wow!" coming out of her mouth after every turn. Then we pulled into our house. Ladies and gentlemen, let the disappointments begin. "Mommy, our house is not pretty," she said. My girl wants lights and decorations outside. Who can blame her? I like them, too. So we go inside and the first words to Daddy were, "You did not put up lights outside, did you, Daddy?" She may be obsessed. So, I decided to try and help her out.

I made a special trip to the grocery store for 50% off Kellogg and Keebler items, as well as 50% off all Christmas decor. ($118.63 worth of items down to $49.07I might add). So anyway, I thought, Score one for Mommy because I'm getting my girl Christmas decorations. Well, as things turned out, I only got 2 red bows to tie on the outside lights and a light-up polar bear because by the time I got to that aisle I was tired and the kids were fussy.

Well we got home and I immediately decorated the outside with our new items, but AZ was NOT impressed. "Where are the lights, Mommy?" Aunt KR even tried to help me out and told AZ our house was so pretty. AZ's response: We don't have lights. Needless to say, I'm off to get outside lights to decorate our house. The holiday madness has begun!

Thrifty Thursday #2

2009-12-03T11:30:00.005-05:00

It's amazing how many FREE or nearly free items you can get if you're looking - or if you're subscribed to the right blogs.

Thanks to Nickels-n-Dimes, I got yet another awesome Christmas gift for someone so I can't say exactly what I bought, but I ordered a personalized gift from Seventh Avenue, and would have spent $33.80. Instead, I spent $13.80 for the gift, counting tax and shipping. What a wonderful world of savings!

I ordered a FREE 2010 calendar from Oriental Trading thanks to She Saved. It's probably not going to be as cute as something I would have picked out and paid money for, but at least this will insure that I won't have to suffer through a World of Warcraft calendar for next year. I'm definitely thankful for that.

I also scored free bath products by becoming a fan of something on facebook. I've gotten a TON of coupons and free things for becoming a fan of things. Facebook is turning into a discount/coupon lovers dream land!

Moms by Heart showed me how to get a FREE Aveeno tote bag. I'm all about taking bags with me to the grocery store. Every little thing I can do to help Mother Earth is at least something. Using her site, I also signed up for a FREE SC Johnson gift basket. How nice is that!

The moms group I'm in had a coupon swap last night, too, and I got some awesome coupons from that. I'm looking forward to the deals I'm going to get from those.

Thrifty Thursday #1: My Latest Money Savings Adventure

2009-11-19T10:21:00.004-05:00

Since this is my first entry for Thrifty Thursday: My Latest Money Savings Adventure, I'm going to talk about all of the great deals I've had so far this month. And I couldn't have done them without all those bloggers out there (note the buttons on the left side of the screen) who help match up coupons with sales. So THANK YOU to them!

My grocery store had a Mega-sale event, and I went in with so many coupons and match ups that I was stoked to see how much money I was going to save at the end of the trip. The cash register receipt is literally longer than I am, all 5'5" of me, and I had so many coupons that a manager had to come over and put a key in the register to show it was OK. I saved $279.75 (45%) that trip. A week later I went in and saved $71.59 (41%), not great, but considering that I won't need to go grocery shopping for 2 or more months(except for milk and produce), this is all FANTASTIC!

This week I got a great deal at Target, thanks to LittleMissKnowItAll, and got some items that I will not name because I'm giving them as Christmas gifts, though I'm tempted to keep some for myself. Anyway, before coupons and rebates, the total was somewhere in the $40 range, and after coupons and rebates, I only spent $8. How awesome is that!?!

So this is just the beginning of my journey with money saving adventures. What are you saving money on? Hello...hello...hello? Anyone out there...out there...out there?

Wednesday's Wish #1

2009-11-18T11:19:00.008-05:00

Lately I've been tossing around the idea of bringing a bit more structure to my blog. I know you're thinking, structure? You? No way! (Did you note my sarcasm?) Anyway, I think I'm going to start posting some of my wishes on Wednesdays, thus the title "Wednesday's Wish." I'm also considering other weekly posts that will probably have content containing things about being a mom, "Mommy's Monday Madness" and my adventures of money saving, "Thrifty Thursdays - My Latest Money Savings Adventure." If you have any ideas or suggestions for me, please chime in!

So, for my first Wednesday's Wish:
I am hoping for a sunny day this week or weekend so that I have the opportunity to take good pictures of my kids for our Christmas cards. (HUGE shout out to Freebies4Mom for the chance to get 50 free Christmas cards!!)

Letting the Green Tea Take Me Away

2009-11-17T13:27:00.004-05:00

During the absolute chaos that is my everyday life with my 3 and 1 year olds, and the other 1 year olds I watch, I'm often reminded of the phrase, "Calgon. Take me away."

It's during these moments when I'd like to sit in a quiet house, probably during nap time, and drink a hot cup of green tea with honey. I began drinking green tea in 2005 after I suffered through a miscarriage. It became my daily ritual - I'd come home after work and enjoy a cup of hot green tea and honey. I guess I stopped drinking it when my heart was mostly healed. I say mostly because a heart never fully heals from that kind of loss, but it does mend. It just leaves a scar. And until recently, I hadn't thought of that ritual of drinking green tea.

I won't say that my heart needs healed again, but with being a mom, wife, and day care provider, it's fairly easy to forget who I am or to wrap myself up in those roles. By beginning my green tea ritual again, I'm hoping that I'll be able to sit down, relax, and reflect about myself and how I can improve while also admiring my strengths and accomplishments. It's the latter part of that last sentence that I struggle with the most. What mom/wife/working woman/female doesn't?

So here it is: Breathe in. Breathe out. It's almost nap time, (HALLELUJAH) and I'm about to let my green tea take me away.

Ok, so I may have two cups since WC just managed to rip off two keys from the laptop keyboard and then get the cat's pooper scooper while I tried putting them back on.

Tip of the Day: You may want to buy stock in Liptons.

Show me the.....

2009-10-28T09:40:00.007-04:00

I am going to toot my own horn here for a bit. I am so proud of myself. Never in a million years did I think I would get excited about going to the grocery store to see how much money I was going to save. What has my life become that grocery shopping is my excitement?!

Last night after work I went to my local Kroger to get our week's worth of groceries. I had 50+ coupons, and the sale was AMAZING! I saved more than I spent, for the first time ever, and that's with having to buy items that weren't on sale and without coupons. My savings was $153.83!! TOOT TOOT!!

My Super Dookie Son

2009-10-19T09:00:00.000-04:00

There are some things in life that no matter how hard I try, genetics is just going to win. I cannot fight the stubbornness or natural curiosity in my children any more than I can fight my son being a lefty or my daughter constantly having "toot toots". These things I knew. What I wasn't prepared for, however, was the similarities between how my children play together and how I played with my aunt, uncle, and siblings as a child.

When I was little, there was a time I remember when my brother was hysterical. (He still is). He had an infectious laugh and a heart and sensitivity bigger than a house. (He still does). But there is one signature move of his that my family and I will never forget. We used to pile up pillows and blankets, and my brother would climb onto the bed and belly dive right onto the heap of cushions, yelling mid-air, "Super Dookie!" And we would all crack up. I really don't know why I still find this so funny, maybe it's the same reason AZ laughs every time she goes "toot toot," but I giggle when I think of Super Dookie.

Now, if you know my son, you know that he's a couch destroying machine. The other day he piled some couch cushions together, climbed on up, and belly flopped right onto those pillows and cushions. In my head, I yelled, "Super Dookie!" and I couldn't help but smile. Do all boys go through a Super Dookie phase, or is it family genetics? Either way, I wouldn't trade it for the world. I will forever connect my son and my brother with Super Dookie.

A Spectacular Day to be Mini-Me

2009-10-12T09:05:00.013-04:00

I had a WONDERFUL Sunday. I already knew that I'd be getting up early, as JD and I had discussed the night before. So, I decided to make the most of it, and made a very large, almost Super-Southern sized, breakfast for my family. I made bacon, eggs, toast, sausage, and sausage gravy (for left over biscuits we already had). If there were cheese grits it would have been perfection. But it was a very nice breakfast, if I do say so myself.

JD had to skedaddle out after breakfast to go help some friends move. He is a much better person than I, that's for sure. Well, I got the rest of us ready for church after breakfast clean-up, and off we went.

I absolutely LOVE the fact that my girl just walks right into her Sunday school classroom. It made things a little easier on me, especially since my boy is her complete counter-part. I could hear him crying the entire time I walked down the hallway, until I turned the corner. There's a reason I always take the pager, though, in case he REALLY needs me while I'm in church. I know he pretty much gets held for a solid hour at church, but that's OK with me. He is a snuggly little guy.

After church, we came home to find my husband cutting the grass. What a nice surprise he was home - and NOT sitting in front of the computer when we walked in the door. Instead, we came in, finding he had vacuumed the entire house. And, he'd thrown in a load of laundry! What a great husband I have!

So, the kids had lunch and took a nap, well AZ had quiet time in her room, while we started watching the Bengals game. WHO DEY! 4-1 record and #1 in the division. It was a good game.

The big game was followed by even MORE fun - we went to Shaw Farms for the pumpkin patch and activities. The kids had so much fun! We walked around for over an hour, and it was the cutest thing. There were little scenes with pumpkin people, like the Wizard of Oz and Cinderella, loads of little houses and mazes the kids ran through, and all sorts of farm animals. What a blast! AZ was so happy she got to bring home a little pumpkin. And I was so happy we got to bring home take-out! Little Caesar's was delicious.

Through all of our running around and day of adventure, I learned something. My daughter is an awful lot like her mother. She's independent as she walks right on into her Sunday school class, she's stubborn since she won't take a nap (though I KNOW she doesn't have the sleep gene I have), and she's my little backseat driver - yes JD, I'll admit it. With every stop light, she lets us know if it's red or green, shouting "Red means stop!" or "Green means go." While turning right on red, she told her daddy, "Be careful, Daddy. Red means stop." She's turning into quite a little mini-me.

It sure would be nice if every Sunday could be as fun and exciting as yesterday was. I'd be willing to make huge breakfasts every weekend, including the grits, if family fun and adventure were a part of that package. What a FABULOUS Sunday with my husband, son, and mini-me!

My Own Mini Terrorist

2009-10-08T17:33:00.004-04:00

I was very lucky to have my daughter first. Because, Lord help me if I would have had my son first. I may not have made it to kid number two had that happened.

My son is a handful. More like a thousand handfuls, to be precise. You think I am exaggerating, right? Well I can assure you that I am not. It recently seems that my son's sole purpose in life is to keep me on my toes and busy. He's a climbing, biting, couch destroying, cabinet door opening, computer turning off, death defying machine.

Some time around his one year birthday, he fell and hit the leg of a rocking chair, resulting in a trip to the ER and a stitch in his eyebrow.

When he was 14 months old, he opened the oven door one night after dinner was over and badly burnt both of his hands. He still has pretty bad scars from that, which are treated at least twice a day with an ointment. I've prepared myself for the fact that he may have to have surgery later to take the scar tissue off his palms.

At around a year and a half old, he climbed out of his crib. I walked into his room where he was supposed to be in his crib and his sister was supposed to be playing, and found him playing and her in his crib. How in the world did that happen!? So now he has a tent over the top of his crib - perfectly designed to cage the animal within. Except it has to be zipped entirely or he can open it and climb out.

And just last weekend, he fell down 5-6 wooden stairs - with not a bump or scratch to be found. I really think his guardian angels must work over time for him. He probably has more than one. I mean, I know how tiring he can be.

So on a daily basis, he destroys the couches, climbs on the dining room table, turns off the computer, tackles his sister, dumps food on the floor, and is my own real- life mini terrorist. And because I love him as any mother loves her child, he'll always be on my top most wanted list.

My New Favorite Night Time Ritual

2009-10-07T10:32:00.008-04:00

The last few nights in my home have been full of giggles and fun. No matter how the events of the days have unfolded, and the last few have been a royal lump of mess, at least the nights have been lovely. My daughter has discovered the art of playing hide-and-go-seek. It has turned into a really nice family-time activity after dinner and before the night time routine begins.

It usually starts with me hiding. AZ will count to ten, sometimes hitting the teens, which she jumbles into a ball of cuteness. And instead of "Ready or not, here I come," she says, "Twenty nine, here I come." It almost always makes me smile in my hiding spot.

When she finds me, after going room to room yelling, "Mommy, are you in here?" it's her turn to hide. She always turns to Daddy to help her. And no matter how good the hiding spot is, while I'm finding her, she comes out of her spot, or starts laughing. Last night, while finding her, I said, "AZ, stay in your hiding spot until Mommy finds you." She replied, "OK, Mommy," thus giving up her hiding spot.

And WC is getting in on the action, too. He helps AZ find me, and helps me find AZ. And he laughs just as much as the rest of us. I love these moments we're having as a family. And this time is quickly turning into my new favorite night time ritual.

A Few Cents

2009-10-06T09:26:00.004-04:00

So, I may be addicted to saving money. I don't even know how it all started. I mean, shortly after AZ was born, I started getting the Sunday paper for the coupon inserts. I fell out of habit of using the coupons, and we stopped the subscription. Now, I follow at least 2 different blogs about saving money and go to 3-4 different online coupon sites to get coupons. And occasionally, I'll get the Sunday paper if there are going to be good coupons in them. Now I go to the grocery store and save 20-30% of my bill. I saved $76 off my last grocery bill using coupons and matching up sale items. I buy sale items sometimes in bulk, and put my meats in marinade and freeze them. I have at least 10 frozen meals, consisting of pork, chicken, tilapia, salmon, chili, or stew, in my basement freezer. When did I start paying such close attention to grocery store fliers and cooking in bulk?

Well somehow this money-saving thinking has seeped into a permanent compartment of my brain. AZ needed some pants and long sleeved shirts for this season, as she's grown multiple inches since this time last year. But I hadn't even left the house yet when I decided I wasn't going to look at clothes that weren't on sale or clearance. We walked out of the mall with 3 pair of adjustable waist pants, 7-8 long sleeved shirts, a reversible down vest, 2 packs of undies, and Christmas outfits for both kids for about $80, spending almost half of that on the Christmas clothes. How did I turn into this person?

It just really makes me happy to save a few cents. It definitely adds up. Got any ideas on how I can save some cents when getting a minivan? :)