Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Merry Mexico!
Monday, December 14, 2009
To Go Or Not To Go
Last week we missed class because I couldn't get my little man out of bed and fed in time, and because the little guy said he didn't want to go {he cried when I tried to pick him up out of his crib}. His birthday party was the day before, so he had had an evenful day, and I decided I would rather not take a grumpy child out. Plus, it was snowy and cold out so it was pretty easy to give in and stay in my nice warm house.
After this incident I was on my facebook account updating my status to see what other moms thought about forcing a two-year-old to go when he didn't want to. My theory was that he likely doesn't really understand at his age what he is missing out on by not going, right?
A couple of my mommy friends gave me their feedback, both saying that I had done the right thing by not taking him. One said that she also misses things when her little girl has had a big day the day before, or missed a nap or something and they "lay low" the next day. The other mommy said that it was okay to miss out at this age, since he doesn't truly understand yet, but that when he is older she would make him hold true to his commitments. I agreed with both women, and was grateful for their advice.
This morning was the same problem as last week... I woke Toddler B up this time, and he said he didn't want to go to class. Again, we had had a busy weekend, and a late night the day before, but this time I picked him up kicking and screaming {it only lasted a few moments}, made him eat breakfast quickly, and put him in the car.
Every few minutes while we were in class he was asking when we were going to "go home" and tried to open the door and run away from me. He participated very selectively in the activities. Such a catch 22 really... if I don't take him I feel like a bad mom {mostly because I think kids need to spend time with other kids and I hate wasting money}, but if I force him to go I feel like a bad mom too. But, I suppose this is just the beginning, and it is pretty "normal" to feel torn as a mother.
Friday, December 11, 2009
My Best Friends
This event is one of the most important ones of the holidays for me because I don't get to see my girls nearly often enough, with all the other commitments that we now have. But, they truly are my "extended" family, and a love them to bits! Females need other females, and I am so thankful that I have these three girls in my life. Love you ladies!!!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Oops, I forgot...
It was not without good cause though. I dropped off the little guy at my mom's house in the morning because I had a dentist appointment, then took advantage my alone time and went to the mall and finished {jealous, Santa baby?} my Christmas shopping!!!
Today I have already baked banana bread for a special celebration with my bestest friends on Sunday, made some Christmas cookies, and started to decorate the tree.
We are celebrating Christmas with my hubby's family this weekend, then we leave for Mexico on the 19th, so I am going to be a busy lady over the next couple weeks, therefore no promise that my forgetfulness will not continue! Good luck with your own busy preparations!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Capturing the Moment
My one regret? There are not nearly enough pictures!!! We took some pics before the party of the cake, table set-up, and decorations, which I will be sure to share in a post in the coming weeks, but we do not have enough pictures of the party itself.
It's on days such as birthday parties that I wish I had a photographer that followed us around everywhere capturing memories for my family. Of course, it's hard to expect that my husband and I will be able to find time between being a good host and hostess to ensure that a picture is taken of every guest, though we did manage to get all the major moments covered {Baby B blowing out candles, wearing a party hat, opening presents, etc.}. But, the pictures {especially the ones I took} certainly aren't professional looking.
These thoughts, which I was already contemplating this morning when I woke up, tie in nicely with the blog post I read on Simple Mom today entitled "Five Simple Techniques for Enhancing Your Images With Children." It is a guide to taking better pictures of your family written by a guest blogger who is also a professional photographer. Some great tips that will hopefully help me improve my photo taking skills in the future!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Alternative Gift Cards
I think that some recipients will surely appreciate a gift card to their favourite clothing store or an iTunes gift card where they can choose what they really want {especially teens}.
However, for those out there who, like me and my husband, see gift cards as basically exchanging cash with someone {what's the point, really?}, I think there are some "alternative" gift cards that are a little more personal, and more focused on allowing the recipient to have an "experience."
How about a gift card to a spa for your mom, sister, wife, or mother-in-law? Maybe consider passes to the zoo for your friend who has young kids, or tickets to the theatre/a concert for the couple who might like a date night? That way you are gifting something more valuable then a new sweater, it's time to themselves getting some relaxation, or time spent with those they love creating memories.
Extra bonus? Many of these alternative gift cards can be purchased online and then either mailed to you {or the recipient directly}, or printed right from home! Good news if you are in Calgary today where it is snowing and miserable.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
A Shocking Confession
I adore storage containers and baskets of all kinds, and I pick them up wherever I go. The trouble is that I never know what to put in them. I can never seem to take the leap to getting things organized even when I have the space and supplies to do so. I make piles of things here and there until finally they drive me {or my husband} crazy enough that I put them away, or I simply move them somewhere else to bug me at a later date.
There are piles of mail and to-do lists {ironically often listing 'tidy up the to-do lists' on them} in my kitchen; stacks of magazines waiting to be read and manuals for my sons toys in the home office; and school assignments, coupons and other junk in a corner of nearly every other room in the house. I hide these things away when we are expecting guests, but drop-in unexpectedly and you will see my little quirk at it's worst.
I credit this habit to two things. First, genetics. My dad makes piles of stuff too. I love my dad dearly and he has been the most devoted father a girl could ask for. But, yes, he suffers from this affliction as well {do you suppose there is a name for it?}. Weirdly enough, I think it is kind of neat that we have this in common.
The second reason that I think I am a pile maker? I have the worst memory in the world. If something is not in front of my face, left out to remind me that it needs to be done, it will never be accomplished ~ another reason for the bazillion to-do lists. {I know that there are others out there who make lists of lists. I have read about them. They do exist.}
It's sort of ironic that my husband is a bit of a neat freak, and I am a clutter maker, but not really since we are polar opposites in many other ways as well. I know that my bad habit drives my husband crazy, and it torments me as well. I often find myself doing laps around the house looking for a spot to put something only to pile it up on top of some other poor item that is without a place to call home.
A place for everything and everything in it's place. My dream.
Any organization tips to share?
Monday, November 30, 2009
Elmo & Cookie Monster Birthday Invitations
Friday, November 27, 2009
Calgary's Next Top Event Planner
Wish us luck!
Oh, and there are only 4 weeks left until Christmas today... just in case you wanted to add a little stress to your weekend as well! ;)
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thanks!
I am thankful that my family is healthy and safe.
I am thankful that I have good friends.
I am thankful that tonight is my last night of class for this semester, and I get seven weeks off before the next classes start. {Wish me luck with the verbal presentation I have to give tonight, I am not one to get up and speak in front of others often.}
And I am thankful that you have taken the time to read my blog, whether this is your first visit or you check in regularly!
Monday, November 23, 2009
I Love You Too, Mommy!
Of course, he also said "I love this song!" while we were driving in the car listening to the Black Eyed Peas, so I suppose he doesn't completely understand the meaning of the words he is saying yet. But, still, it is exciting to watch him comprehend the world around him, and his own emotions. In the last few weeks Baby B has also said, "I so happy," "Don't be sad, mommy," and the best one yet, "Calm down, mommy." {Guess I need to work on my road rage...} We have not only noticed that he is learning the words to express how he feels or thinks someone else is feeling, but he has also become increasingly sensitive and moody as well. The great big quivering lip has been showing up a lot more often, and the angry face has made a few appearances as well. Terrible Twos and Threes here we come!
Guess I need to work on toughening up a bit! My goodness it's hard to stay upset when they are putting on those too gosh darn cute faces, and throwing out their Kid's Say the Darndest Things worthy quips! I often melt into a fit of giggles while disciplining him....
Friday, November 20, 2009
Spotted at Hostess with the Mostess
I love that Jenn writes about everything to do with entertaining, from menu planning to decorations. And she is uber talented ~ if you read her bio she has a graphic design background, which is probably why her site looks so fabulous!
Some of my favourite categories on the HWTM Blog are:
Real Parties {where Jenn highlights a real party that a real person like you and me planned}
Free Printables {where Jenn shares her incredible graphic design talents with her readers}***Check out the Free New Moon Printables {for the Twilight obsessed}
DIY {where Jenn gives tips and tutorials for the do-it-yourself fan}
Of course, you can't miss the Party Themes section of the wesbite either, where you will find some of the most creative, fun ideas I have ever seen. The Bedtime Story Baby Shower is adorable, and the Santa Baby Christmas party almost makes me wish it was my turn to host Christmas this year! I could get lost on this site for hours {if I had the time}!
Warning: You may become as addicted as I am to Hostess with the Mostess - don't say I didn't warn you! ;)
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Because Girls Enjoy Shopping!
Just because there is a stereotype that women enjoy shopping doesn't mean that this task comes easy to all women though. In fact, it can be a huge burden for some! So, I thought I would share a few Canadian online shopping websites, and gift guides to help those who, like me, struggle to find something for every person on their Christmas list! Of course, if you have something to add, please feel free to email me or comment below!
Online Shopping
For Baby/Toddler/Expectant Mother - Dear Born Baby or Mom & Baby Works
For Eco-Concious Friend/Wife/Mother - Lavish & Lime
For Grandma/Wife/Mother - Charming Mommy
For Grandpa/Dad/Husband - Canadian Tire
For Anyone - Sears or Etsy or Chapters/Indigo
I also just discovered {a little late} that you can shop at many stores through http://www.airmilesshops.ca/ and collect Air Miles on your purchases! {Thanks Morgan!}
Gift Guides
Gifting Outside the Box
Parents Canada
Squidoo
Wishing you a stress-free shopping experience this year!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Big Boy Bed
Friday, November 13, 2009
Holiday Decorating
We haven't collected much in the way of decorations in the almost 4 years we have been married, since we never really saw the point {we haven't hosted many gatherings in the past} but now that we have a little one, it's much more fun, and necessary, to decorate! We bought a new tree at Costco when they first came out, and I picked up some decorations last year when things were on clearance.
I am working towards a more sophisticated colour scheme since the majority of our decorations are blue and purple and were purchased from Ikea {nothing wrong with their stuff, some of my favourite white glass balls with ribbons are from there - we are just ready for a change}.
I am also coveting a gorgeous wreath from Pottery Barn. I love it's simplicity, and that it's not too traditional looking. I am hoping to collect a few other items this year as well, like a wooden or metal reindeer... maybe a trip to Pier 1 will be in my future!
I was totally blown away by a recent post by Centsational Girl, showcasing her handmade Manzanita Advent Tree! Simply amazing!
Where is your favourite place to shop for holiday decorations?
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
So Sew!
I also wanted to get a play/splat/splash mat to use for crafty projects and play-dough playing with Baby B. Most are made out of an easily wipeable and washable fabric such as laminated cotton. The ones by Mimi the Sardine are adorable, but hard to find in Canada. So, I have requested that Great Grama {or GG as Baby B calls her} make us one for his birthday. She is amazing with a needle and thread, and would gladly teach me if I had the time to learn all of her secrets.
I was also super-impressed when I visited a friend's Facebook page and saw a picture of two of her beautiful kids dressed up in the sweetest Halloween costumes ~Dorothy and the Tin Man ~ which she made!! How fun it would be to be able to customize Baby B's Halloween costume next year, I thought. But, alas, knowing me the costume would never be done in time!
So, until I get really motivated to learn a new trick, I guess I will just have to keep admiring the work of others!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Baby B's 2nd Birthday Party
Friday, November 6, 2009
Close to Home
While I was lying in bed waiting for sleep last night, I spent a lot of time thinking about the items that I would try and grab if I were ever staring down a fire at the house next door to mine {if it is mine that is already on fire, my only task will be to get myself, hubby and Baby B out safely obviously}. I started to realize how much of my stuff is irreplaceable and how even more is totally replaceable ~ if you have insurance of course {shameless plug for the industry that my husband works in}.
Hubby and I take extra care to back up all the pictures that we take on a separate external hard drive that he keeps at work, so I guess pictures are no longer at the top of my priority list. The albums we have from before the digital age would be sadly missed of course, but we keep them in such obscure places {closets} that they wouldn't be able to be saved likely.
Most of my jewelry doesn't have value aside from the sentiments associated with it, but I would probably want to try and grab my jewelry box if I could. However, I guess my priorities have changed since becoming a mother, because I found myself mostly thinking about trying to save my son's favourite toys, newborn booties, and his adorable little clothes. I thought more about how becoming homeless would affect Baby B... and didn't think much about even grabbing a coat {not even my fab gifted coat from hubby a few weeks ago} for myself before heading out the door. I guess it just shows how unconditional and immense my love is for my little guy... and how thankful I am that we are safe and healthy today! My thoughts are with my neighbours who lost everything last night.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Mmmmm... Nana Bread!
I was able to distract him from the mess for the last couple days with the yummy banana bread {or mmmm... nana bread as Baby B calls it} I baked. Yes, another success for me... I was able to replicate the banana bread that my mom and aunts make that my husband loves, and lucky for me Baby B enjoys it as well! The recipe I used is for Best-Ever Banana Bread from the Best of Bridge in case you were wondering. My family chooses to leave out the blueberries though.
Hopefully now I can start to focus more on my son's upcoming 2nd birthday and, of course, Christmas! Monday I will try to post my inspiration board for my son's Sesame Street themed birthday party! Friday's post is still a suprise {even to me ;)}... see you then!
Monday, November 2, 2009
Happy Birthday True Cuddles
Friday, October 30, 2009
Learning to Create
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Looking at the Bright Side
But, he was even more excited that he had purchased a jacket for me as well. It is a very nice coat, but instead of being enthusiastic about his random, unexpected thoughfulness, I told him {rather rudely I must admit} that the specific jacket he purchased wasn't the one I had previously looked at and wanted.
He pointed out to me that I was being very negative. And who can blame him for being diappointed with my reaction? Afterall, what wife wouldn't be excited to receive a beautiful new coat for no reason, and not really needing one, from their husband? Hello?!
This made me realize that I too often look at the negative in life rather than focusing of all the amazing things that I have. I am being very ungrateful. So, in order to attempt to correct this behaviour I am going to list five things that I am grateful for right now, in this very moment:
- I am thankful that I am able to be a stay-at-home mom.
- I am happy that it was warm enough this morning that I was able to take Baby B outside for a few minutes to hang some Halloween decorations with me.
- I am lucky enough to have an amazing son who brings a smile to my face just by being himself!
- I am fortunate to have the flexibility and support from my family to be able to go back to school part time to learn more about something I am passionate about.
- I am grateful for my mom and my sister and our relationships with each other.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Talking... and talking back!
How to deal? Well, this being my first child and all, I am not an expert, but I have adopted a few methods of dealing with a difficult and unhappy little one. First, we are a time-out house. The first step in the typical time-out sequence is to firmly, but still lovingly tell Baby B that his behaviour is not appropriate nor acceptable in our house. The second time he repeats this behaviour, we simply remind him that what he is doing is unacceptable and that if he does it again he will get a time-out. The third occurance results in the actual time-out.
I have read that a general rule of thumb is one minute of time-out per year of age. We have a time-out mat that actually keeps track for us, and is pressure sensitive with an alarm that sounds if he gets up before the time is over. A little overkill sometimes, but better than me leaving him in time-out for a longer than appropriate time because I get busy with laundry and forget to tell him he his done. But, if we aren't around the time-out mat, any empty corner of a room will do.
Another successful way to deal with a toddler who is misbehaving, so my Today's Parent magazine tells me, is to simply remove him from what he is doing or distract him with another activity. This has had varying results, since my little guy is pretty stubborn, and when he wants something it's pretty hard to get him to forget about it.
Oh yes, my little guy is quite a talker, and many people say he talks more than most kids his age. There have been quite a few humorous moments in the past 6 months or so, and I have been trying to collect them to share with you in a later post... I am sure if most of us wrote down the cute/funny things our toddlers/preschoolers say each day we'd all have quite a book of smiles to share! Feel free to post a favourite diddy your child has said!
Friday, October 16, 2009
More Inspiring Blogs
The Creative Party Place
The Creative Crate
Love. Obsess. Inspire.
How About Orange
Hostess with the Mostess
I'll be back again next Monday (October 26th)!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Halloween Costumes
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Wife Confessions
It wouldn't be so bad if the majority of the confessions went something like this one I found: "I love that we still have so much love and affection for each other even after all these years. Sometimes I feel like we are still newlyweds and I pray everyday that that feeling doesn't go away." However, many of these confessions are about the horrible things that wives have done to their husbands ~ cheating, lying and other dirty secrets.
Does posting these things online somehow make the person feel better? Does it release the associated guilt in some way? I suppose there is comfort in knowing you are not alone, but in this context I think it is not healthy for the individual or the relationship. I hope that most of the posts are gross exaggerations, and these women are not running around sleeping with their husband's cousins or best friends.
I know some days it's tough to communicate, and you can feel as if you are not even in the same book as your husband, let alone on the same page. But, how can airing your dirty laundry on the internet make things better? The sites seem to be quite popular and they have received a few "awards," so reading/writing these confessions must do something for the women who are on there... an extreme reality soap opera of sorts.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Roundup of Mommy E-newsletters
Babyvibe.ca
SavvyMom.ca
Today's Parent
BabyCenter Canada
Simple Mom
True Cuddles
Baby Steals
If you are loving roundups as much as I do, visit Morgan's blog post on Mon Petit Amour where she rounded up baby/maternity stores in Calgary.
Friday, October 9, 2009
11 Weeks Until Christmas
Simple Mom writer Tsh (pronounced "Tish") is attempting to help everyone stay sane this year by setting weekly goals for each of us to accomplish so that we aren't doing everything last minute again this year. She has entitled the series of newsletters "12 Weeks to a Peaceful Christmas"
This week she suggests that you gather up all the addresses you will need for your holiday cards and research the different option that you have for sending said cards. Tsh suggests three options to consider {excluding the traditonal store-bought cards}, including making your own cards, ordering custom photo cards, or sending e-cards {and donating the money you would have spent on cards and postage to a charity}.
This made me curious, what option do you think you are going to pursue this year??? This year my family and I will be in Mexico for Christmas, something I am both excited and sad about {yay for getting out of the cold, boo for the change in traditions}. But, since I am already going to be having an un-traditional holiday, perhaps I should consider stepping out of my usual holiday card plan and look into the e-card option. Just not sure if the older generation will embrace this new-age idea... I think Grandma likes to proudly display her card {and the enclosed family photo} for all her friends to see.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Date Night
- go bowling {even glow bowling if you want to feel nostalgic}
- go to a play or dinner theatre {try Theatre Calgary or Jubilations here in Calgary}
- go to a comedy club
- visit a museum
- go to a sporting event {extra points with the hubby usually}
- try painting pottery
- take a cooking class together
- go for a walk {before it gets too cold}
- go to a farmer's market
- drive to a nearby city/town and get ice cream
- volunteer somewhere together
- walk around a pet shop {cute window shopping}
Share your favourite less conventional dates by posting a comment!
Monday, October 5, 2009
Blissfully too Busy to Blog Today
I also enjoyed chatting with a few of the women involved with Entrepreneurial Moms {http://www.entrepreneurialmoms.org/}, one of the event sponsors. Check them out if you are interested... I am definitely going to look into joining since it always helps to have mentorship and guidance from others when you are looking to start something new in your life.
One day... when I get my act together and answer the questions that Danielle LaPorte {www.whitehottruth.com} says we should ask ourselves... such as "what is your relationship to life?" and "what is your core desired feeling?" Then maybe I will know what it is that I want to do and will be able to go after it, all with the support of other mom entrepreneurs!
Friday, October 2, 2009
Celebrating Each and Every Day
While I don’t have the ability to follow each and every blog I find, I do make time for my new favourite site that I have subscribed to which is all about a topic that is very near and dear to my heart... events! {I love event planning and I am currently going to school one evening a week to get my Event Management Certificate from Mount Royal.} Michelle Stepp is the fabulous female behind “Everyday Celebrating,” and is an event planner in the Nashville, Tennesee area. I, quite simply, love reading her blog. I am fascinated by the stuff that she both finds and creates, and the events that she features.
I was super pumped when, after emailing Michelle to ask her about her fun blog header {which I love and hope to be able to emulate with my own one day when I have the skills}, and she got back to me – that very day! I am amazed that not only are the blogging women I find talented, but they are gracious and sweet too... and Michelle is no exception. When I emailed her back again to ask if it was okay that I feature her on here today, she was kind enough to say yes.
If you are as passionate about events as I am, or even if you just need some fresh new ideas for an upcoming family shin-dig, please check out Everyday Celebrating. I am positive you will be as hooked as I am after viewing the cute kabob invites Michelle found, or the fun Halloween ideas she’s rounding up. As Michelle’s concept implies, we should all celebrate each and every day... whether there’s an official reason to or not! Cheers!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Practical Advice
Monday, September 28, 2009
Mom & Tot Classes
Fitness with Kids
***Gymboree
Gymtastics {I am excited to take a GymTots class in January...}
****Little Wonders
*****Petite Beats {Miss Connie is so nice and my son adores her}
South Fish Creek Recreation
Sportball
*****YMCA {rating is for the Swim & Gym classes offered at the Shawnessy YMCA}
I am going to take as many classes as possible to stay busy this winter... being stuck in the house with an active toddler can drive a mommy crazy!
Sunday, September 27, 2009
New Blog Header
Friday, September 25, 2009
Fab Female in the Limelight
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Cooking Up Compliments
Now I do the grocery shopping, and plan and prepare the meals, occasionally asking the hubby to barbeque as required. It's still a huge battle for me every weekend to come up with a meal plan and then, each day at 5:30pm, attempt to turn my groceries into something that is edible and the whole family enjoys. It's no secret that toddlers are picky eaters, and after spending the time and energy making something it can be so disheartening when my son refuses to eat what I put in front of him.
That's why it was the highlight of my month {I am not exaggerating either}, when a few weeks ago after preparing my mom's spaghetti sauce recipe for the first time by myself, both my husband and son gobbled up the food on their plates whilst making the appropriate slurping and smacking noises, and then asked for more. I couldn't have been happier or prouder of myself. It definitely gave me the motivation to continue learning all that I can about cooking. I am even looking into some cooking classes to further my culinary skills. If anyone knows if any such classes in Calgary please share {or a favourite "beginner" recipe website will be equally appreciated}! And, if you are in the same boat as me, know that you are not alone, keep trying, and celebrate every little compliment!
Monday, September 21, 2009
dearbornbaby.com
I get very frustrated when I am looking for something in particular, and I head out with my little man for a day of shopping, but come home empty handed because stores in Calgary are out of stock! So, I buy online to save myself the time and headache, or at the very least research the different options online before I leave the house.
My favourite online maternity/baby/toddler store that I have used for the majority of my baby-related purchases, is Toronto-based Dear Born Baby {www.dearbornbaby.com}. They offer free shipping on orders over $100, and they have consistently provided me with good customer service and a great selection of products. The site is easy to navigate, professional and appealing to look at. I have mentioned this company to my mommy friends too many times to count. {Fabulous Friend: "Lauren, where did you get this great thing?" Me: "From Dear Born Baby of course."}
I highly recommend that you check here first before heading out to the stores! Especially if your little one doesn't particularly like to go shopping for more than an hour or two like my little guy! {Bonus: you get to receive your new stuff in the mail, and who doesn't love that!?}
Happy shopping!
Friday, September 18, 2009
A Blissful Life
One of the speakers at the event is Peter Walsh from TLC's Clean Sweep {who I adore for his ruthless organization skills}, and another is Sex and the City author Candace Bushnell. This conference also does double duty for me in that I get to spend the day with a whole bunch of adult women, something that every new mommy knows doesn't always fit into the schedule. Big thanks to my fabulous mom and awesome hubby for sharing childcare duties for the day so I can attend! Here's to living a life you love!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
To Love, Honor, and Vacuum
I discovered this gem of a blog about a year ago and immediately signed up to receive the weekly emails. Author of To Love, Honor, and Vacuum, Sheila Wray Gregoire from Belleville, Ontario, has lots to say, and whether you are Christian or not, have kids or don't, it is a good read for anyone and everyone who is married. I am certainly not an expert on marriage, probably no one is, but I think Sheila is pretty darn close. Her writing is encouraging and straightforward. I learn something about myself every time I visit her site, and I find tools to help me change the things that I don't like about myself or my life.
The email that I received on Friday was all about not fretting when you feel like you aren't good at anything early in your marriage, and not comparing yourself to women who have been doing things {like cooking} alot longer than you. It's always nice to know that there are others out there who are going through the same thing as you! Here's a quote from Sheila's post/email entitled "September Resolutions":
"Simply by living, life often gets easier. We get practice. Practice at making a decent meal. Practice at putting our toys away. Practice at sharing our lives and our hearts. Hopefully practice at keeping our wallets—and our mouths—closed when necessary. And most importantly, practice at showing others how much we love them. And practice does a lot more for you than an endless list of resolutions."
Monday, September 14, 2009
Have Kid, Still Travel
So, for today's Mother Monday post I thought I would share a few tips on traveling with a baby or toddler.
Keeping in mind your child's age and individual likes/dislikes you may want to consider bringing the following items:
- New small toys and books {that they have never seen before, or you can reserve particular items for travel only and your child will look forward to being able to play with that item again the next trip}
- Crayons, colouring books, and stickers
- Flash cards
- A small dollar store photo album filled with pictures of your child, their friends and family {our son loves flipping through albums and naming people or the things they are doing, so this is my newest trick for our upcoming trip}
- Snacks and wipes {small bite sized foods take longer to eat}
- Portable DVD player and a few favourite movies {if the airline doesn't have those built-in seat back TVs}
- A travel "Aqua Doodle" or "Magna Doodle" {less mess then the crayons and colouring books}
- Inexpensive electronic travel games {if they aren't old enough to actually play they will still enjoy pushing the buttons, and fellow travelers will prefer the beeping sounds over your fussing little one}
When packing for your trip don't forget to put any medications you or your family members are taking in your carry on luggage {I didn't have my birth control pills for the two days we were in Hawaii without our checked bags}. Please do not count on your child having a nap during the flight, whether it is their typical nap time or not. If you can, allow them to burn off as much energy as possible in the airport before boarding the flight. And, above all else try to put on your patient hat for the day ~something I sometimes forget~ because I think kids can sense our tension and it may cause them to be stressed out as well.
Please share your tips by posting a comment below!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Blog Tips
Thanks,
Lauren
Friday, September 11, 2009
The Blog that Inspired Me
There is one blog in particular that inspired me to stop thinking about writing my own blog and actually do it, and that is Mon Petit Amour (http://www.bebechouchou.blogspot.com/) by my seven months preggo and unbelievably talented {I'm serious, there isn't anything she isn't good at I am pretty sure} friend Morgan. It seems fitting therefore, that I feature Morgan and Mon Petit Amour as my first Friday post since she is such a "Fabulous Female."
Morgan has found some really interesting baby and maternity products and companies over the last six months or so, since starting the blog, and I check it out at least a couple times a week. She even has contests to enter and promotions exclusively for her readers from some of the companies she has featured.
I am inspired that she has turned her cute little blog so quickly into something that so many women enjoy, and that might even make her some moolah down the road. Morgan is such a kind and generous person, and it definitely comes through in her writing ~ she makes you feel right at home on her blog. Please check it out!
~Lauren
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Inaugural Post
I have also always wanted my blog to be unique. I am a mother, and completely obsessed with all things baby and toddler. But when I thought about writing a blog I decided that I wanted it to be a little more then just what silly thing my little man said or did that day, or the neat toy I just bought for him (although I will still be sharing these tidbits as well). I wanted it to be readable by any woman.
So, I am going to focus on three me's, writing three weekly posts {I may be a little naive and ambitious as a newby blogger, so it remains to be seen whether I can actually do this}. The three me's are:
{M is for Mother and Monday}
Being a mommy will be the focus of Monday's post. I will share my experiences raising my 21-month-old son ~ good and bad. I may also highlight a particular mom, baby, or toddler product or company that I enjoy.
{W is for Wife and Wednesday}
Wednesdays I will focus on being a wife and homemaker. I struggle with this aspect of me everyday. I am not a good cook, cannot sew or knit, and I hate cleaning. Admittedly I am not blessed with any of the skills that befall the typical doting housewife. But perhaps there are others out there and we can learn together?
{F is for Female and Friday}
Fridays will be all about being a woman in general. How I try to maintain balance in my life by nurturing the other relationships in my life with friends, my mom, and my sister. I will also write about other things I am passionate about including event planning, stationery, and reading.
Thanks for stopping by, and remember to take time to embrace "you" today!
Yours,
Lauren