Help! I caught the shopping bug!

I hate shopping for myself- but shopping for little E isn't so bad. I made the mistake of going into Gymboree! I realized it was Gymbucks and I had to get some stuff. It is all so darn cute.

Eliza's new duds!

and they are going to call to remind me when it is time to redeem my gymbucks. Gymboree has this Momnesia thing down for sure.

Eliza's new favorite game is looking at herself in the mirror. It is the cutest thing ever. Then she looks behind the mirror all confused and wondering where the baby went. I love watching her. It is almost cruel!

In my mad cleaning spree this weekend I decided to make a diaper changing station on the bottom level of my condo. I was pretty tired of hiking upstairs to Eliza's room just to bring down the dirty diapers. So I used a basket I had laying around to made this little changing station. I stocked it with a changing pad, diapers, wipes, a binky, books, diaper cream, boogie drops, a boogie sucker, thermometer, Vaseline and toenail clippers. How long will it stay this neat? I give it 48 hrs.

Great Baby Shower Gift

I am so excited that Heavenly Hold now has gift certificates. I think this is such a wonderful gift to give an expectant mom. I know I would have loved this gift- money towards picking out any carrier I wanted. WOOHOO! All you baby wearing mommas know you can never have too many carriers. I am off to shop. Wish it was for me!!!!

Play Date

Eliza had a play date with a little boy who lives nearby. OK...it was a play date for mommy really. Our husbands golf together so we had TONS to discuss. Tee Hee Hee! Anyhoo, we have been getting the babes together since they were born. His mom and I had the same due date so really the babies are the SAME age. However, Eliza was born two weeks early and he was born a day late. Eliza and her little friend were so adorable. It gave me such pleasure to watch them play and interact. It was fun chatting over milestones and fretting over ones not yet achieved. This tends to happen with moms who are also teachers. It reminded me how much they have grown over the past 8 months. It truly is amazing.

Here are some snapshots from the play date. To see more check out my Flickr page. Sorry the pics are ginormous and into my sidebar. Oh well- not changing it now.

Learning how to share!


Playing footsie!

A light snack!

I think he is in love. My husbad says this picture represents all male-female relationships!

Paparazzi shot

Gotta love the matching binkies!


* and by the way- the commentor on my Golf Rant post who wrote "What an A$$hole!" was of course my husband. I knew it all along- but he told me the other night. So I said, " Well, at least we are in agreement!"

Sex and the City!

Dana from Just Talk inspired me for this one. We used to watch the show toegther. I so knew I would get Miranda. Nobody wants to be Miranda!!!!! Well- it would not have been my first choice- but it was inevitable. I really hope I get a chance to sneak away and see the movie this week. I think Pete owes me after the golfing debacle.

You Are Most Like Miranda!

While you've had your fair share of romance, men don't come first Guys are a distant third to your friends and career. And this independence *is* attractive to some men, in measured doses. Remember that if you imagine the best outcome, it might just happen. Romantic prediction: Someone from your past is waiting to reconnect... But you'll have to think of him differently, if you want things to work.

Which Sex and the City Vixen Are You?

Autism Walk this Sunday!

Pete, Eliza and I are doing the autism walk this Sunday. I planned on carrying her for the 5K in one of my carriers. I am thinking a back carry in the Mei Tai is the way to go. I love the ring sling but I don't think it would be good for that long of a walk. I am also worried about her pale little skin. She is so white and I want to keep her protected from the sun. I ordered some SAFER sunscreen from TruKids, but it hasn't arrived yet. I know there is a Burt's Bees that is considered safer so I might try that out for oe. My stroller stinks and doesn't really cover her eyes from the sun- but we will bring it anyway.


I am also a little nervous because I have never fed her solids away form home. She REFUSES to take powder formula so I need to bring liquid. The walk is an hour and a half away from our house so that complicates matters even more. I guess it will work itself out- it always does.

I am really looking forward to the walk. I want to take pictures but I am not sure if the hubs will want to bring the camera.


If you would like to donate check out our page!

Thursday Thirteen #3

Thirteen Things I want to do this summer. 1. READ! 2. Go to the Beach 3. See The Nerds! 4. Dude Ranch! 5. Try out new recipes! 6. Attend the Balloon Festival 7. Visit the Amusement Park 8. Get two pedicures! 9. Write More! 10. Start a mom's group, 11. Design my website 12. Chill by the POOL Saved the best for last... 13. ENJOY MY FAMLY!!!

Everything Educational Thursday

It is Everything Educational Thursday. In honor of today's theme here is a great site I have used with my K students. It is called Rainforest Maths. This amazing site, designed by Jenny Eather, has over 200+ math activities for grades K-6. Some of the topics addressed include counting, measurement, equations, area, volume, money, time, shapes, functions, chance & probability and more! There are no advertisements or pop-ups which is an added bonus. The website is also aesthetically pleasing. I love the bright colors and rain forest theme. Please check out Baby, Toddler and Beyond for more Everything Educational Thursday!

The Golf Rant

It does seem like I am complaining an awful lot lately-but if something is bugging me I am going to write about it and try to sort out my brain. Sorry to my husband in advance.

Here goes…
This Saturday is Eliza’s last swim class. Although I could take her alone, it is much easier with two people. It makes getting in and out of the pool easier, drying off and changing easier etc. In my silly little head I figure my husband would want to be there for Eliza’s last class. I don’t know why I would think this. Maybe because I care about my family and want to do things together. Maybe because I enjoy our time together. Maybe because we barely see him all week and that is our designated family time. Like I said I must be silly to think all of these things because apparently my husband does not share my feelings. I guess when men are made their brains are just formatted differently. I always tell my husband that I am a “we” person. I think it terms of “we”. For example, “What are WE going to do this weekend?” My husband is an “I” person- as in “What am “I” going to do this weekend?”

The original plan was that we would go to swim and then do things around the house. Ok, well that was my original plan. Silly mommy! Daddy’s plan was he would go to swim and then go golf for four hours while mommy watches Eliza and does everything around the house. Notice the WE and I difference in our plans. So yesterday I get an e-mail from my husband that goes something like this.

The e-mail starts out all sweet and nice telling me he is going to have a maid service come and do an estimate at our place. He knows I am stressed about the mess. However, the maid service is not going to straighten up our place (as my husband kindly reminded me this past weekend)- so now I basically have to bust my hump cleaning everything so the maid service doesn’t think we are total pigs. Granted this is my husband’s idea of buttering me up for the second part of his e-mail.

Here is the second part of the e-mail, which may not seem bad to you but it really burned me up. He asks if I can get Dana to come up and go to swim class with me on Saturday. Why? In his own words, “because they gave me a tee time of 8:40 am for the tournament this weekend. I requested a later tee time, but they didn't give it to me.” Oh, the mean man at the golf course gave him and early tee time and now he gets to golf instead of spend time with us. He did say he would see if they could push back his tee time but I know my husband and that was a lot of lip service so I wouldn’t get too mad.

So YES I am upset. My husband works late almost every night and we barely get to see him. On weekends he would have no qualms spending 8-10 hours at the golf course. The only reason he doesn’t is because I loudly voice my feelings against him playing two days a week. I just don’t get this mentality. I would never voluntarily spend that much time away from him and Eliza. He always says I can- but seriously- what the heck would I even do? Anything I want to do, I want to do with my husband. I have decided this makes me a big idiot- because the feeling is not reciprocated.

Ok I am done ranting. Do I feel better? No, not really. Oh well.

Wordless Wednesday

Sling Stash

Steph over at Adventures in Babywearing had an awesome idea for this post. Check out her blog to see that I really don't have that many carriers.

I wish, wish, wish I had more carriers-but I don't. I am working on building my stash. I love my ring slings. I really liked my pouch but can't use it anymore after losing some weight. Here is what I could find pics of...

Taylor Made Ring Sling! LOVE IT!!!!

Pretty Momma Ring Sling- LOVE IT!

Baby Hawk- WOOHOO

Bjorn * Excuse the post delivery puffiness.

I am not a fan of this carrier

Ultimate Baby Wrap.

I am looking for a better wrap. Hotsling- Geat if you get a good fit.

Anxiety's a Bitch

Anxiety stinks...

There is really no way around this fact. I have struggled with anxiety since I was little. I had attacks starting at a young age. I also suffered from (and still suffer) from anxiety dreams. I used to joke that I would teach in my sleep because I would continue to replay things and think about teaching all night long. Great night of sleep- huh! One reason I moved from third down to K is because the stress of test prep started to wear on me.

As a child I had had pet bunny rabbits that lived in a hutch outside. I would dream that I forgot to feed the bunnies, or that I was trying to feed them and I just couldn't. I also had anxiety about things kids don't normally worry about. I guess one time I hit the stove knob and it started to smell like gas in the house. My mom warned me to make sure the knobs on the oven were off so gas fumes didn't go into the air. I would check the knobs 10 times before I could sleep. I would check the knob and then go back to bed. Then I would start to worry that I accidentally knocked the knob out of place while I was checking it. I was deathly afraid that gas was leaking into the air and I wouldn't live to see the light of morning. The cycle was vicious and endless.

As an adult I continue to suffer from anxiety off and on. I almost always feel tense and unable to relax. I worry endlessly about things I cannot control. While pregnant I constantly worried that something was wrong with the baby. If I didn't feel constant kicking I would start to feel sick with worry. I eventually broke down and rented a Doppler to ease my anxiety. After she was born I hated being along with her. I was always worried. I don't even know what I was worried about at that point. Eliza is 8 months old and I still continue to check to make sure she is breathing over and over and over. My cousin's baby died of SIDS when I was in high school and I think it really had a lasting effect on me.

So yesterday I started to feel anxiety again and I am not sure why. Most of the time it is mild and I can keep it under control. But I think I am just overwhelmed by commuting back and forth to my parents every week. I can't seem to get anything done at my house. We always have stuff to do on the weekends and if we don't then Pete goes out golfing. I guess I just feel overwhelmed right now and I know I shouldn't. That is why anxiety is a bitch- you get worked up over things normal people take in stride. A messy house overwhelms me and I suddenly feel like I can't do anything.-so I don't. This results in more mess, more anxiety etc. , etc. , etc.. I don't even know where to start- so I just start to worry about all the other things I need to get done. Then BAM- an anxiety attack.

Anyhoo. just felt like writing to hopefully get it out of my system. But I am sure that is not the last I my anxiety tales.

How to tell when it's time to switch car seats

Many of you moms out there might be unsure how to know when it is time to move your little guy or girl from an infant seat to a convertible car seat and then to a booster. And how do you know when it's time to switch them from rear facing to forward facing?  I was reading one of my favorite blogs today and they had an informative article about when to switch to a booster.

Click here to read!

Or for you moms of younger kids (Danielle!) you guys can read this earlier article about rear facing as long as possible.   Click here

Check out the American Academy of Pediatrics website for much more helpful info about car seats!

Sorry about all of the links but this is way too much info for me to type & I want everyone to get it all!!  Hope you all had a great Memorial Day weekend with your kids  :)

Tasty Tuesdays

Here is the latest edition of Tasty Tuesdays! It was contributed by Dana from Just Talk. Check out her blog for another tasty recipe.

Since summer is coming I know we will all have more time to cook breakfast, especially us teachers! Vegan Blueberry Pancakes
2 cups white flour, preferably unbleached
3 Tbsp. sugar, preferably Sucanat
3 Tbsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
2 cups vanilla soy milk
3 Tbsp. canola oil
1/2 cup frozen blueberries
1/2 cup fresh blueberries

Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and mix together. Add the soy milk and oil and mix until the batter is smooth.Ladle the batter onto the hot pancake griddle. Add frozen blueberries. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side.Serve with fresh blueberries. EAT & ENJOY!

Summer's so close I can taste it...

I have always thought of Memorial Day and Labor Day as the bread in my summer sandwich. Squished in between is all of the fun and joy that is summer. Oh how I how I love the worry free, flip-flop filled summer months of sun and sand- and no work for us teachers! With memorial day approaching, it struck me how different my feelings are on the two BBQ filled days.

Most of us usually attend a picnic/cookout at some point on Memorial Day weekend. Dressed in our summer duds regardless of weather, we are in high spirits and filled with excitement. I know I persoanlly feel a certain sense of optimism as the summer approaches. As we sip our cold beers we discuss the countless days we will spend at the pool. There is talk of workout regimenes, camping trips, rafting excursions, and maybe even a wine tour. As the night goes on, and the inebriation builds, all in attendance leave certain it will be their best summer ever. It is memorial day, how could we think any different?

The summer passes quickly. And though we promised ourselves we would get to the pool everyday we get there a few times a week month. Our summer jogging/walking programs that started out strong dwindle as getting that bikini body seems less possible mid-July. The stack of book and magazines we swore to get too is only down by half because there is just never enough time.

Before we know it Labor Day approaches. Once again we gather around the BBQ, asking where the time has gone, reminiscing about the days of summer past. We all have our own shoulda, coulda, wouldas. Everyone seems to walk a little more slowly and our beer just doesn't taste as cold. I dread closing the summer sandwich each and every Labor Day. I am always a little sad when things are over.

I have decided I want this Labor Day to be different. It will be the day of NO REGRETS! I want to look back and think, I DID IT ALL! No shoulda, woulda or couldas for me this time around.

Here is to having the best summer you can. Don't waste a moment of time- is is YOUR time after all. Make it count and have no regrets.

and if you get a chance, have a drink for me!

Is she cute or what?

Sorry! I just had to say how Eliza is the cat's meow! I could just eat her up in two seconds flat. In fact I think I will. GULP!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11908429

Super Powers!

Your Superpower Should Be Invisibility

You are stealth, complex, and creative. You never face problems head on. Instead, you rely on your craftiness to get your way. A mystery to others, you thrive on being a little misunderstood. You happily work behind the scenes... because there's nothing better than a sneak attack! Why you would be a good superhero: You're so sly, no one would notice... not even your best friends Your biggest problem as a superhero: Missing out on all of the glory that visible superheroes get

What Should Your Superpower Be?

I actually pretended to have super powers when I was little! I would soooo love to be invisible. I am a huge Harry Potter fan and I have always said I would love to have an invisibility cloak. And I so thrive on being misunderstood. Hey this bloggy thing is pretty darn on the money this time.

Random Recipes

The theme for random recipes this time around is picnic food! Join in the fun and post your favorite Memorial Day recipe.

Red Potato Salad

2 1/4 lbs. red potatoes
1/2 cup olive oil
2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
2 Tbsp. white wine vinegar
2 Tbsp. vegan mayo
1 tsp. garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup chopped red pepper
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/3 cup chopped red onion

Scrub and quarter the potatoes. Cook in salted water until just tender. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Whisk together the olive oil, mustard, vinegar, vegan mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, gently fold the chopped vegetables into the potatoes. Add the dressing, tossing to coat. Season to taste.
Makes 6 servings

Hey DUDE! Yippie ki yi yay

So I don't know how many of you have ever seen Hey Dude on Nickelodeon but it was all about some kids that worked at a Dude Ranch.

I really don't know that that has to do with anything- but I really want to to go to a Dude Ranch and that show is my only reference. A friend at school went to one with her daughter and the girl scouts and said it was fun. OK what she really said was that it was Dirty Dancing Ghetto Style Dude Ranch Fun. Yippie ki yi yay! I have been dying to go on some kind of weekend (long weekend) trip with my husband for almost a year. Last year I begged him to take me whale watching before Eliza was born. Well I have never been whale watching and I never got to go on a baby moon like I wanted. Granted, I have been asking my husband to take me rafting since the summer we met and I am still waiting. Don't worry, I have my bathing suit and suntan lotion all packed so if he springs a romantic getaway on me I am READY! So now I am on the Dude Ranch kick and I need to see if I can wrangle up some friends to go with me.

Everything Educational Thursday

I will be participating in Everything Educational Thursday starting next week. I need a week to get my brain together!

Thursday Thirteen #2

Thirteen Favorite Television Theme Songs* Picking 13 was very hard for me. Might have to do 13 more next week. I have a THING for T.V. theme songs. * Click link to hear 1. Family Ties 2. Growing Pains 3. Who's the Boss 4. Perfect Strangers 5. The Facts of Life 6. Just the Ten of Us 7. Mary Tyler Moore 8. Cheers 9. Laverne and Shirley 10. Different Strokes 11. Wonder Years 12. Fraggle Rock 13. Mr. Belevedere

I think I might have adult ADHD

I think I might have adult ADHD and I took this quiz. My results are down below. I scored an 88. It turns out that anxiety and depression often accompnay ADHD and I have suffered from both. I am looking into it and it is very interesting.

Top 10 Reasons to Go Veg!

In honor of World Vegetarian Week..

Check out this article on going veg. Top Ten Reasons To Go Vegetarian

Awesome Contest!

Wordless Wednesday Below

All you green mamas out there will totally dig this contest over at Recycle Your Day!

The giveaway is from One Mom and A Party where you’ll find awesome eco-friendly party supplies. ONE LUCKY WINNER will get to choose either a set of 4 (tablecloth, napkins, and favor bags) or a set of 8 favor bags!

Wordless Wednesday

Dress Shopping + Shoe Shopping = Miserable Me

I am so NOT a shopper. I have a wedding to go to this Saturday and another in a few so I needed a dress and shoes; unless of course I wanted to wear my maternity dress from last summer. Shopping trips are like torture sessions for me. I hate buying things I will only wear a few times. I hate shopping because I don't like to spend money. Instead, I like to hoard my money like a little miser.

Last week I ended up trying Marshalls for a dress. I never shop there because I hate looking through racks of messed up clothing but I didn't feel like making the trip to the mall with Eliza. So I tried on 5 dresses and picked the one that made my breasts look the least like flat Kate Moss boobies. I have lost weight and unfortunately I am a bit waif like. I was going for a green dress but I ended up with Turquoise and that made me happy. Overall, the shopping experience was not too bad.

Tonight I went to look for shoes. My dad was watching the babe so I was kinda in a hurry because I didn't want to put him out. I would have taken her with me- but it was a torrential downpour outside. So anyhoo, I think I looked at every shoe in DSW and didn't really like any of them. When I did find a shoe I liked, they of course did not have it in a size 6. At one point I was trudging around with my Converse sneakers half on and half off. I know I looked totally lost. Finally, I grabbed a pair of Silver kitten heeled Steve Maddens in size 6 and headed for the register. I needed to end my shopping misery with some sort of purchase.Unfortunately, my dress is at home and I am at my mom's-so I can't try on the ensemble until Friday.

When I got home I called the Nail place to make a mani/pedi appointment. I still have a gift certificate leftover from my birthday in January. I haven't been able to get the nerve to go after seeing a report on Rachael Ray about how I am going to catch all types of gross things from the salon. However, I don't need to be snaggle toes at the wedding so I broke down and made an appointment for Sat. at 11:30. I will be all fresh and pretty after my swim lesson with Eliza!

It isn't that I don't like dressing up. I DO! I just hate all the money and prep. If it were up to me I would be bare foot, wearing hand me down clothing, with dreadlocks in my hair. One can only dream!

In other news...
Poor Eliza bug has a terrible cough and can't sleep. I can already tell it will be a LOOOOONG night.

And the winner is...

First I want to apologize for taking so long to announce the winner. Secondly, thank you to everyone who entered my giveaway! I wrote every name down on a piece of paper, some names 5 times, and boy are my hands sore. So many contestants!

And the winner is Bunny B from http://bunnymoney9.blogspot.com/

Congrats!!!!

Tasty Tuesday

Here is the latest edition of Tasty Tuesdays! It was contributed by Dana from Just Talk. Check out her blog for another tasty recipe.

Vegetarian "Veggie & Bean" Salad
Ingredients:
1/2 c uncooked black beans OR 1 C. canned beans, drained & rinsed
1/2 c uncooked garbanzo beans OR 1 C. canned beans, drained & rinsed
2 celery stalks, sliced thin on the diagonal
2 small carrots peeled and sliced thin on the diagonal
1/2 lb asparagus OR 1 cup sliced green beans
1 Tblsp olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried basil OR 1 Tblsp fresh minced
1 tsp dried marjoram OR 1 Tblsp fresh minced
2 Tblsp water + 2 Tbslp lemon juice
1/4 c minced fresh parsley
1/2 red pepper, sliced in thin strips
Dressing:

12 Tblsp oilive oil
6 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (2 - 3 lemons)
basil, thyme, marjoram
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 tiny pinch cayenne
Directions:
Put 6 qts water on to boil, add pasta & salt, cook al dente, drain and rinse with cold water, place in fridge to chill
Heat the oil in an 8 - 10 quart pan
Prep the veggies
Add the garlic to the oil
Add the carrots, celery & asparagus or green beans, and saute 5 minutes on med/high heat
Add the herbs and spices, saute briefly.
Drain and rinse the beans, then add to veggies.
Add the water and lemon juice, cover and simmer until veggies are tender/crisp.
Chill in pan in freezer for 15 min
Mix the dressing, combine all ingredients, including red pepper strips and minced parsley
Add salt & pepper, adjust seasonings to taste, chill for later, or devour immediately!
EAT & ENJOY!!

Munchkin Giveaway!

I will announce the winner Tuesday! Sorry for the delay!

How to Make Toothpaste - wikiHow

How to Make Toothpaste - wikiHow

Milestone Monday

Happy 8 Month Birthday Eliza Marie!

Today Eliza had her 8 month checkup. Here are her stats!
Weight 17 lbs and 10 oz (oops I typed 7lbs the first time!)
Height 28 1/2 inches

Growth Percentiles according to Babycenter
Length = between percentile 75 and 90
Weight = between percentile 25 and 50

Here are some things my little princess can do!

• She is sitting unsupported.
• She lunges forward from a sitting position to get toys she wants.
• She is rocking back and forth on her knees. Almost crawling!
• She crawls or scoots backwards.
• Transfers objects from hand to hand
• Can closely track (even distant) moving items
• Seems to notice even subtly colorful objects.
• Notices items far away.
• Responds to sound by making sounds
• Enjoys social play
• Recognizes familiar faces.
• Is interested in mirror images.
• Appears joyful often.
• Laughs out loud
• Struggles to get objects that are out of reach.
• Uses toys in more ways than they're intended.
• Drops toys and expects you to retrieve them—over and over
• Responds to own name

I also spoke with the Pediatrician about my concerns regarding vaccinations. More on that to come.

Who's Your Favorite Blogher Hero?

Nominate your favorite blogger!

Is there a blogger who's changed your life? Nominate that person to enter our contest! Your BlogHer Hero could win a free trip to BlogHer '08, and more!

My Little Angel

These were our first pics using the backdrop Peter and I made last weekend . It is a little too wrinkly for my liking-but I am happy overall. Hopefully we will take more later today if princess fussy pants is in an obliging mood.

Here is my little angel wearing her Angel Halo from EternalHope- Fun Stuff For Your Little Angels. Heather over at Maternal Spark is responsible for creating this adorable headband for my little angel. Please check out her Etsy shop to see more of her charming creations. This is a great gift for so many occasions. Let's face the fact that our little ones aren't always- shall we say- angelic. I recommend that you take a deep breathe, insert some ear plugs, pop on the headband and in minutes you'll be in heaven.

The tutu was made by Stacy from Sara Rose Tutus. It is precious- especially when paired with the Angel Halo. If you would like to have a tutu made for your LO check our her blog. Stacy now has gift certificates available. I think this would make a unique shower gift.

I seriously give these moms so much credit. They are amazing and extremely creative. Please take a minute to check them out!

To view the rest of Eliza's photo shoot pop on over to my Flickr account

What Color is Your Mind?

Your Mind is Purple

Of all the mind types, yours is the most idealistic. You tend to think wild, amazing thoughts. Your dreams and fantasies are intense. Your thoughts are creative, inventive, and without boundaries. You tend to spend a lot of time thinking of fictional people and places - or a very different life for yourself.

What Color Is Your Mind?

Well, my favorite color is purple but I am not so sure about my mind! haha

Bad Mommy!

Heather aka Future Mom pointed out today that I am a bad mommy who forgets to fill in Eliza's baby book. BAD BAD MOMMY!

So here are some of the things I still need to add: In purple is stuff I am adding tomorrow.

World News and Leaders
Local Events and Leaders
The Economy
Sports Figures
Popular Movies
Best Sellers

The price of
A Gallon on Gas: $2.81
A Loaf of Bread: Food For Life Ezekiel 4:9 Bread, Sprouted100% Whole Grain $3.39
A Home: $350,000-$400,000
A Car: my car is a VW Passat- in 2007 the price of this car ranged from $19,425 - $27,785
A Jar of Honey (It is a Pooh themed book) $2.69

I also haven't filled in any of her doctor appointments, Immunizations, or her heights and weight, OOOPS

I broke down...

and ordered a new sling. I have been wanting a Solerveil ring-sling and I finally broke down and bought one. I feel my purchase is justified because my husband is out paint balling with fraternity brothers today. So this sling is my paintball. I can't wait to receive it in the mail. I ordered it online from Heavenly Hold.

It is the Solarveil Ring Sling in Khaki. It is going to be great for the summer. It blocks 70&-80% of UVA/UVB rays even when wet.

Also, it isn't too late to enter the May baby wearing photo contest over at Baby Sling Blog! The deadline to enter is May 23. The theme this month is photos that show your special connection. Don't forget to enter for your chance to win a free pair of baby legs.

One Child's Journey to Slumberville

Sleep is hurdle that most new parents struggle with at some point. So, unless you are one of those parents whose child slept through the night from the beginning you have asked yourself one of these questions. How do I get my baby to sleep? How do I get my baby to nap? How do I get my baby to sleep for more than a few hours straight? Or in our case how do we get our baby to fall asleep without looking like an ensemble member of One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest?

It has been a long and challenging road with Eliza's sleep routines. It has been frustrating, upsetting and exhausting. I admit that at one point not too long ago I thought I would be swaddling her for years. Adding to my stress were books reminding me a baby should not need a swaddle after 4 months people who offering unsolicited advice that I was stunting her physical development. However, my pediatrician said it was OK to swaddle so we continued the practice. You must understand Eliza needed the swaddle to sleep. Mommy and daddy needed it too! I didn't enjoy putting my daughter in a straight jacket for bed, but it really was the only way she would settle down for a nap or for the night.


0-3 months
We brought Eliza home from the hospital and tried to put her down with no swaddle and no sleep positioner. Can you tell Pete and I were naive about new babies? I thought my tiny little infant would drift off to sleep in my arms. I could have not been more wrong. Although it would be a while before we started swaddling this was the start of our journey in finding ways to get our baby to sleep. We tried rocking, bouncing on the bed, and walking. Driving did help- but have you seen the price of gas lately? Nothing seemed to help little fussy pants get to sleep.
At the hospital the nurses showed us how to swaddle but didn't really stress its importance. Seriously, when they told me no blankets in the crib I understood that to mean NO BLANKETS! My mom and Pete’s mom never used a swaddle so they couldn’t help either. Apparently every baby in our family except Eliza had slept like well- a baby. When I Eliza was about a week old I relayed our problems to my good friend Tracy. Her advice was to wrap her like a burrito and wedge her in the sleep positioner.

I was at Target during this conversation so I picked up a Munchkin Cool Flow Back Sleeper. That night we used the sleep positioner and wrapped her with her arms out in her Kiddopotamus. I just wasn’t comfortable with letting her sleep wrapped in a blanket. She was small but mighty and I figured she would HULK her way out of any blanket without Velcro. Also, she just didn’t seem to like being swaddled with her arms in so we resisted and continued to struggle with her sleep.

It wasn't until Eliza was 9 weeks old that we truly learned the art of swaddling from Happiest Baby on the Block. At this point Eliza would only nap for about 20 minutes at a time and only in my arms. Heather, having read the book, came for a visit and wrapped Eliza like never before in a receiving blanket. Finally, our baby found sweet sleep. Life after this improved greatly for me as a mom. I had finally found a way to soothe princess fussy pants and grew more confident in my ability to help my daughter. Eliza would take long naps while swaddled in the swing and I finally had a break to regain my sanity. I also discovered that there were actually blankets made for swaddling that worked much better than the receiving blankets I’d received at my shower.

3-6 months
Swaddling seemed like our sleep solution and Eliza was napping (for the most part) and sleeping well. But, as the months went by I started to question our swaddling. I felt she was getting too old for the baby burrito. Karp said they shouldn't need it after about 4 months. So we tried leaving one arm out like he suggested in the book. NO DEAL! We tried again a few weeks later. We pleaded with Eliza Deal or No Deal. NO DEAL! And so we let months five and six pass.

Month 7
At about month seven we found it necessary to phase out the sleep positioner. We found Eliza velcroed face down in her sleep positioner on two separate occasions. We knew it was too dangerous for nighttime when we don't watch her like a hawk. So we went cold turkey! It was horrible in the beginning. She would roll over onto her belly and wake up over and over and over. But we stuck it out –knowing it was a period of transition- and eventually she was able to sleep sans positioner. I started to see the light.

I was still frustrated that she needed the swaddle to settle down for sleep. If we didn’t swaddle her, she would fuss and struggle in our arms and never fall asleep. Granted she is not the world’s most cuddly baby and fusses in our arms regardless. However, at 7 ½ months my mom started getting her to nap without her arms swaddled. Slowly she started taking all her naps without her arms swaddled.

Happy 8 Month Birthday
The last transition has been falling asleep at night with her arms out. We still use her Kiddopotamus but we Velcro it under her arms. She is especially wound up in the evenings; warm baths and lullabies do nothing for this spitfire. So, Pete usually ends up lying with her on our bed and trying to get her to settle down. This process could take up to an hour or more (if daddy falls asleep too). Another problem is we move back and forth to my parents every week and she needs to adjust to a new crib at each home. It seems like on the night she adjusts- no one really sleeps. I can’t wait until June when I am living in one house. Who knows what will come in Months 9-12! Let’s hope for long sleep filled nights.

A Must Read!

Now that I am a mom, reading books not strapped between two pieces of cloth or cardboard is a luxury. During my pregnancy I would devour 5-7 books a week. I frequented the library as much as the loo. A year later, I just don't seem to have time to read anymore. And so I am pickier about my selections. If I am going to read instead of Blog spend time with Eliza- the book had better be good. So believe me when I tell you a book is worth your time.

This past weekend I spent my time relaxing and reading A Dozen Invisible Pieces and Other Confessions of Motherhood. The title alone intrigued me and anytime someone is going to make confessions I am there. I am all for honesty, especially when it comes to being a mother. I don't believe you super moms for a second. I know you have all your junk hidden behind the shower curtain when I come to visit. Seriously, I think we find ourselves in the honesty of others. And that is why I connected so deeply with this text. As I read Hull's words I felt close to her because she speaks openly about the struggles of motherhood.

In A Dozen Invisible Pieces and Other Confessions of Motherhood author Kimmelin Hull, mother of three, shares her inspiring journey through motherhood. As a former Physician’s Assistant and a current Childbirth Educator she offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by mothers alike. You will share in her ups and downs as her family grows and she becomes mom to three kids under the age of four. She is an inspiration- because seriously- just typing three kids under four has me exhausted.

The back of the book suggests Hull will take you on a roller coaster of emotions and it proves true on every page. I became invested in her story from page one. I was HOOKED! I found myself shaking my head in agreement as her words continually rang true. Her writing style is conversational and I felt more like I was swapping stories with a friend over coffee than reading. I laughed and grew misty eyed on more than one occasion. Over and over again I was impressed by her brutal honesty concerning the challenges of motherhood. I couldn't’t have found a better time to nestle up with this book than the weekend of my first Mother’s Day. It helped me to reflect on my experiences with Eliza over the past eight months. It also spurred me to think about my future as a mother. I finished the book thinking, "I am going to be OK. I am not alone in what I have experienced as a mother."

This book is a refreshing look at motherhood and the societal expectations on mothers today. Nothing is sugar coated and I can guarantee you if you are a new mom or a seasoned pro you will connect with Kimmelin Hull’s experiences. Her words will draw you in and you will finish reading feeling refreshed and inspired in your role as a mom.

For more information on Kimmelin Hull you can visit her childbirth education site- Pregnancy to Parenthood or her blog

High School Reunion

All the talk over at Because I Said So has got me thinking about my 10 year high school reunion that is coming up in November. Dawn was debating on whether or not she should attend her 20 year reunion. My first thought was NO. But with my own reunion approaching I decided to think about it a little more.

First of all it is only a 10 year reunion. That isn't even long enough for people to get fat or bald. What fun is that? OK, now I am being mean. I see some people I was friends in HS and I am very content with that. I also can see what many others are up to simply by going on Myspace; so why do I need to see them in person? With e-mail, Blogs, Facebook, and Myspace- who needs high school reunions? I might be a little more amped if it were a 50 year reunion. At least I could spend the night getting hammered and making fun of people.

It isn't that I didn't enjoy high school. I actually had a pretty great time. But I am just not sure I really want to spend a night making uncomfortable small talk with people I haven't seen in 10 years. In truth, I hung around with a variety of people but never really found a niche. If you went to high school with me and read my blog ( I really have no clue if anyone from HS even reads my Blog) you probably thought I was part of a group. The problem is- I never felt that way. I was more like a chameleon who that blended in with her surroundings. I basically took on the traits and characteristics of the group I was with at any particular time. I was and still am an oddball.

I am currently leaning 75% towards NO with a 25% (Thanks Stacie- I meant 25%-oops!) chance of yes.

Did you attend any of your reunions?

Do you think I should go?

Some pics from my Thursday Thirteen

Here are some pics to go with my Thursday Thirteen. Yes! I did think blonds had more fun for a short while. I also had red and black hair at some point. Brown is my natural mousy lovely color.

Looking Oh So What Not To Wear at Homecoming!

Don't Forget Prom. Here I am with my Dad

Hummer Rockin a Graduation Cap! More Hummer Love- Side View

Happy Graduation to Me Class of 1998

And of course this is all building up to my post on whether or not to attend my 10 year high school reunion this fall...

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Things about High School 1. Drove a White VW Cabriolet ad a White VW Gulf 2. Worked at Rita's Italian Ice & A Dog Kennel 3. Had my neck cracked regularly by the vice principal 4. Was on the Cheer leading team- regular and competition 5. Attended two cotillions and two proms 6. Drove in a Hummer to graduation. 7. Made a Hummer sized graduation cap for the Hummer 8. Ate Doritos smashed into cream cheese on a bagel for lunch almost every day 9. Carried around a rice baby that I will tell you is nothing like Eliza 10. Was disliked by many jealous nice girls 11. Was nominated for homecoming and had someone draw breasts on my pics hanging around the school 12. Listened to the key note speaker sing Oops, there goes another rubber tree plant at graduation 13. Survived!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

What's Your Political Profile?

Your Political Profile:

Overall: 25% Conservative, 75% Liberal Social Issues: 0% Conservative, 100% Liberal Personal Responsibility: 0% Conservative, 100% Liberal Fiscal Issues: 75% Conservative, 25% Liberal Ethics: 0% Conservative, 100% Liberal Defense and Crime: 50% Conservative, 50% Liberal

How Liberal Or Conservative Are You?

If I were motivated

There are so many things I want to do, but I never seem to find the time. Here is my incomplete list- maybe it will motivate me to spring into action

• write more (especially about my first year as a mom)
• work on designing a web site, learn more about web design
• start a group for mom's in my development
• get better at being Vegan
• read, read, read
• clean my house
• get abs of steel
• figure out how to make some $$$

Donor's Choose- Awesome Site for Public School Teachers

Attention to all my readers who are also teachers. I just came from a staff meeting where I learned about an awesome free website called Donorschoose.org. I ran home to share it with you all before I had Momnesia. I don't think it is available in every state yet-but I know they are expanding. Donor's choose is a program where teachers submit proposals for things they need in their classrooms. A typical proposal is a one page essay that specifies what you will need for your project. Viewers read the proposals and can fund some or all of your project. Now that summer vacay approaches and you have some time, consider writing up a proposal for your class. Think Digital Camera, LCD projector, or maybe some books for literature circles. This website is a great way for teachers to get things for their students when school funds are low or non-existent. The site also has a Blog if you are interested.

Worldess Wednesday

What's Shakin

So I feel like I haven't been posting much lately and my google reader is filled to the brim. Welocme to the world of blogging. So what do I do? I go and join Twitter so I can spend even more time on the computer. Oh well! If you haven't joined yet- check it out!

Another reason I haven't been on the computer is the nice weather. I like to spend a lot of time strolling with Eliza. I usually try to go for at least 45 minutes. I would love to go for an hour but sometimes I just have no where left to stroll. My princess is spoiled and has been known to go for three walks in one day! That sure is the life. I told Pete we need a sidecar for the stroller so he can push me too!

Thanks to Lori for this awesome award.


I am mourning the loss of Jason Castro from the idol cast. He was my fav. idol for so many reasons. I will miss his dreadlocks. I think he said last week the hardest part of idol was getting his brain to work. The hardest part of being a mom is getting my brain to work ! I hear ya Jason!

You will be missed!

Tasty Tuesday

Here is the latest edition of Tasty Tuesdays! It was contributed by Dana from Just Talk. Check out her blog for another tasty recipe.

For all of you veggie lovers and health nuts - I thought you might like to try this dip. I LOVE edamame and made this dip last week. It was Yummy - I ate it with peppers, celery, and carrots.

Edamame Dip

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups frozen shelled edamame (green soybeans), thawed and cooked
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup chopped red onion
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce (such as Lee Kum Kee)
1 (16-ounce) can cannellini beans or other white beans, drained


Preparation
Place all ingredients in a food processor, and process until smooth. Serve immediately, or cover and chill.
Serve with your favorite raw veggies!